Minister Cortes gives evidence in London to the All Party Parliamentary Group on International Conservation - 277/2026

Minister for Environment and Climate Change John Cortes, who is a recognised expert in ecology and conservation, was in Portcullis House, London last week in order to give evidence in person to an enquiry by the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on International Conservation into Biodiversity in the British Overseas Territories.

The APPG was represented by Barry Gardiner MP in the chair, Lord Randall, Lord Grayling, Kerry McCarthy MP and Toby Perkins MP. Minister Cortes was there in his capacity as Chair of the UK Overseas Territories' Environment Ministers' Council, as well as Gibraltar's Minister for the Environment.

The session lasted just under two hours and consisted of an intense question and answer session covering a wide range of issues related to biodiversity and the environment.

Minister Cortes was able to share his experience and knowledge of biodiversity conservation issues in the Overseas Territories in general and discuss in detail those matters of particular interest to the Territories. These include funding, research, capacity building and management of alien invasive species.

There was considerable discussion on the marine environment, given the large areas of ocean covered by some Territories, especially in the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

The impact of climate change especially on Territories in the Caribbean, also featured prominently at the hearing.

Emphasis was placed too on international agreements and conventions which are extended to the OTs and on ways that the UK Government and the private sector can assist biodiversity initiatives.

Between them, the OTs hold around 94% of the biodiversity for which the UK is internationally responsible, including endemic species found nowhere else in the world. The Gibraltar Campion is just one example of many species unique to one or other of the Territories and the importance of ensuring that none of these becomes extinct was emphasised.

APPG members congratulated Gibraltar on its work in this field, mentioning the creation of Commonwealth Park and the 25-Year Environment Plan as specific examples of exemplary work.

While in London, Minister Cortes also met with senior officials at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to discuss some forthcoming international initiatives and environmental work related to the U.K.-E.U. Treaty and provided updates on progress with the sewage treatment plant.

Minister Cortes said, "This was an excellent opportunity to advocate for the rich, but vulnerable biodiversity in the Overseas Territories. I was able to stress important points in relation to work that needs doing and support that is needed and also to share some of the positive environmental work being done in Gibraltar and our sister territories. I was extremely well received, and I very much hope that the APPG found my contribution useful in their enquiry. I look forward to the outcomes".

While in London Minister Cortes was accompanied by Tyrone Duarte of Gibraltar House and Nadia Murphy from his Ministry team.