The Government notes with sadness the death of Nelson Mandela, who had been President of the Republic of South Africa.

Mr Mandela's death is being marked around the world as a result of his positive influence on politics and in particular the manner of his treatment of adversaries.

In Gibraltar, the Government ordered that flags on official buildings should be flown at half mast after the ceremony for the arrival of new Governor Sir James Dutton had concluded in Parliament.

The Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, said: "Fulsome tributes have been paid to Mr Mandela by the most powerful political figures in the world and by citizens of all countries, in particular in his native South Africa. Gibraltar adds its small reflection on a man who inspired his nation to reconcile after the horrors of apartheid and who inspired generations of people around the world to understand the importance of magnanimity and of treating everyone as you would wish to be treated yourself. In that respect, Mr Mandela became a figure of towering influence in the world, far beyond the Republic of South Africa. Our condolences go to his family on behalf of all of Gibraltar."