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Written question asked by Daniel Kawczynski (Conservative) on Tuesday, 16 May 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 May 2023. It was answered by James Heappey (Conservative) on Wednesday, 24 May 2023 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.


British Indian Ocean Territory: Shipping

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent discussions he has had with his Mauritian counterpart about the potential effects on maritime security in the Indian Ocean of transfer of the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritian sovereignty.

Answer

The Secretary of State for Defence has not held recent discussions with his Mauritian counterpart.

The UK and Mauritius are in negotiations on the exercise of sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory/Chagos Archipelago. The UK and Mauritius have reiterated that any agreement between our two countries will ensure the continued effective operation of the joint UK/US military base on Diego Garcia, which plays a key role in regional security.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
185235
Session
2022-23
Subjects
British Indian Ocean Territory Mauritius Sovereignty Security Shipping
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk