The UK has finalised a controversial agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while securing a long-term lease on its key military base in Diego Garcia for an annual fee of £101 million.
Defence Secretary John Healey presented the details of the arrangement to Parliament, describing it as a “strategic investment” that strengthens the UK’s national security.
The deal includes a 99-year lease with an option to extend for another 40 years. In addition to the lease, the UK government has pledged to establish a £40 million trust fund for the Chagossian community, according to the BBC’s correspondent in Port Louis.
The agreement briefly faced a legal setback when a court injunction was issued early this morning at 02:25, halting the handover. However, the injunction was lifted just after 12:30, allowing the deal to proceed.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the agreement in the Commons, stating that Diego Garcia is essential to UK defence operations and has played a pivotal role in global security efforts.
“The first duty of a prime minister is to keep the country safe,” he said, adding that the island’s military capabilities have already had “a huge impact” on combating global threats.
In response to criticism over government spending—especially amid cuts to welfare and disability benefits—Starmer insisted that the Chagos deal was a matter of national security.
Healey echoed this sentiment, asserting the agreement represents less than 0.2% of the UK’s defence budget and contributes to making Britain’s armed forces “safer and stronger.”
Facing sharp opposition from both the Conservative Party and Reform UK, Starmer hit back, pointing out that their stance aligns with that of Russia, China, and Iran.
“Surprisingly, the leader of the opposition and Nigel Farage are in that column,” he remarked.
Responding to concerns from the Chagossian community, many of whom oppose the handover to Mauritius, Starmer said their legal challenge had strengthened the agreement’s legitimacy.
“The court had the opportunity to hear arguments from both sides and ultimately ruled in favour of the UK,” he added.
Despite the government’s assurances, several Chagossian campaigners remain outraged. “I’m beyond horrified and angry,” one told the BBC. Another added, “We are not giving up.”
