Written question asked by Lord Steel of Aikwood (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 22 November 2016, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 6 December 2016. It was answered by Baroness Anelay of St Johns (Conservative) on Thursday, 1 December 2016 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Chagossians: Resettlement

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what discussions they have had or plan to have with the government of Mauritius following their decision to deny the right of return to the Chagos people.

Answer: We have continually sought the views of the Mauritian Government in regards to the Chagossian resettlement review. The British High Commissioner to Mauritius met representatives of the Mauritian Government on 16 November to explain our decision against resettlement and the support package of approximately £40 million for Chagossians, including those living in Mauritius. The Government will continue to make efforts to work closely with Mauritius to develop cost-effective programmes which will make the biggest improvement in the life chances of those Chagossians who need it most.

Secondary information