Senior officials in Downing Street express reservations about the handover of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, where Diego Garcia’s base remains under UK control. The deal has sparked political backlash and raised concerns about national security, international relations, and the rights of Chagos Islanders. Prime Minister Starmer defends the agreement as essential for the base’s operation, amidst rising criticism.
Concerns have arisen within senior circles of Downing Street regarding the UK government’s proposed deal to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, including the strategically significant Diego Garcia airbase, to Mauritius. The agreement stipulates the continuation of UK control over the base through a 99-year lease. Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently emphasized that legal certainty is crucial for the base’s operational capability, connecting the deal to national security.
The Chagos Archipelago was retained by the UK after the independence of Mauritius in the 1960s, with more than 1,000 residents evicted to facilitate the Diego Garcia military base. Mauritius has consistently claimed sovereignty over the islands, and the International Court of Justice previously ruled that the UK’s administration is unlawful. As political discussions unfold, there are significant implications for the UK-US relationship and domestic policy considerations.
The proposed handover of the Chagos Islands is fraught with political tension, highlighting issues surrounding military security, international law, and humanitarian considerations for displaced islanders. Opposition parties question the deal’s prudence, with local and global ramifications that could impact UK relations, particularly with the United States. Ultimately, whether the government proceeds with the deal could affect both its political capital and foreign policy standing.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
