How does mutual legal assistance operate under the 2026 UK/EU Treaty in relation to Gibraltar?
Short answer
The 2026 UK/EU Treaty in relation to Gibraltar supplements the European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters between Member States and the UK in respect of Gibraltar. It provides standard forms, proportionality requirements and time limits, helping authorities obtain evidence and carry out investigative measures efficiently.
Detailed answer
The Agreement sets deadlines of 45 days for decisions and 90 days for execution, and covers:
- search and seizure
- hearings
- banking information
- covert investigations
- joint investigation teams
The House of Commons Library notes that the law enforcement and judicial cooperation provisions are similar to those in the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, and are underpinned by a commitment to continue applying the European Convention on Human Rights.
Status: the Agreement was signed on 14 July 2026 and has been provisionally applied since 15 July 2026, pending formal ratification.