Written question asked by Lord Kempsell (Conservative) on Monday, 21 October 2024, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 4 November 2024. It was answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Labour) on Thursday, 7 November 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Chagos Islands: Sovereignty

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government whether consultations were held with representatives of the Chagossian community prior to the decision to hand over sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritius and, if so, how many meetings were held; and what other steps were taken.

Answer: The negotiations were between the UK and Mauritius, with our priority being to secure the full operation of the base on Diego Garcia. However, we recognise the huge importance of the islands to Chagossians and have worked to ensure this agreement reflects their interests. Mauritius will be free to implement a programme of resettlement on the islands other than Diego Garcia, and we will finance a new trust fund for Mauritius in support of Chagossians. Working with Mauritius, we will also restart visits to all the islands for Chagossians. Ministers and officials will continue regular engagement with members of the community.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL1811
Session: 2024-26
Related items: Chagos Islands: Sovereignty
Thursday, 28 November 2024
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Mauritius Sovereignty Chagos Islands
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk