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Written question asked by Priti Patel (Conservative) on Monday, 2 June 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 5 June 2025 (named day). It was answered by Stephen Doughty (Labour) on Monday, 9 June 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Chagos Islands: Sovereignty

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to paragraphs 1(b)(viii), 2 and 3(a) of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), if he will set out (a) the process by which the UK will notify the Government of Mauritius, (b) the designated points of contact in the Government of Mauritius to receive such notifications and (c) whether the Agreement binds the Government of Mauritius to keep those notifications confidential.

Answer

There is no notification requirement for UK or US access, basing or over-flights around the base. Agreement to inform a host nation about military action from their territory is standard practice in basing arrangements. Any notification will take place after the event and will not require the UK to divulge sensitive information. Article 3(2) of the treaty clearly states that Mauritius cannot undermine, prejudice or otherwise interfere with the long-term, secure and effective operation of the Base on Diego Garcia, and that Mauritius shall cooperate to that end.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
56193
Session
2024-26
Related items
Chagos Islands: Sovereignty
Friday, 20 June 2025
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Mauritius Diego Garcia Sovereignty Chagos Islands
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk