Written question asked by Sarah Pochin (Reform UK) on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 15 December 2025. It was answered by Al Carns (Labour) on Friday, 19 December 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Diego Garcia: Military Bases

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has received assurances from the Government of Mauritius on ensuring uninterrupted access for UK and allied forces to the facilities on Diego Garcia following the entry into force of the UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia.

Answer: The UK-Mauritius Agreement, which, beyond assurances, represents legally binding obligations, robustly protects the national security of the UK and our allies, and ensures that the UK will continue to exercise all rights and authorities which are required for the long-term, secure and effective operation of the military base on Diego Garcia. Article 3(2) of the Agreement confirms that Mauritius is obliged not to undermine, prejudice or otherwise interfere with the operation of the military base on Diego Garcia, including unrestricted access for UK and US forces. This ensures that military operations will not be compromised in any way.

Secondary information