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Written question asked by Lord Strathcarron (Conservative) on Monday, 20 November 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 4 December 2023. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Tuesday, 5 December 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.


British Indian Ocean Territory: Sovereignty

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what are their specific reasons for planning to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius; and what assessment they have made of China’s intentions for the Chagos Islands given their relationship with Mauritius.

Answer

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 vital role in regional and global security. The UK will only enter into an agreement that protects our national interests and those of our partners, including from any malign actors in the Indian Ocean.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL431
Session
2023-24
Subjects
British Indian Ocean Territory Mauritius Sovereignty
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk