British Indian Ocean Territory Sovereignty 2024-10-22
2024-10-22
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns about the security implications of an agreement regarding the British Indian Ocean Territory, particularly the Diego Garcia military base.
What assessment has been made of the potential security implications of the agreement with Mauritius on the sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory?
The Government inherited a situation where the long-term secure operation of the Diego Garcia military base was under threat. The agreement secures the future of the base and strengthens our role in safeguarding global security. A treaty is subject to finalisation, and Parliament will scrutinise it following its signature.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not provide a direct assessment of potential security implications but instead provided context on the importance of securing the base.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question stems from reports that the British high commissioner and others were bugged by the Mauritian government, raising questions about the trustworthiness of Mauritius in relation to a 99-year lease on Diego Garcia.
Since the mistaken opening of negotiations by the last Government on the sovereignty of the Chagos islands, it turns out that the British high commissioner and others appear to have been bugged by the Government of Mauritius. If police investigation proves this true, is the 99-year lease even worth the paper it's written on?
We note reports with concern but will not comment on an ongoing police investigation. Historical conversations, not current negotiations, are under scrutiny. The treaty meets our national security objectives and respects the Chagossian people's interests.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific concerns about the validity of the lease were not addressed.
Not Commenting On Ongoing Police Investigation
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns are raised about the potential for China to gain military involvement in the Chagos islands, affecting British and allied security.
How can the Minister continue to defend ceding of Chagos islands to Mauritius when China is expanding influence in Indo-Pacific? With no binding agreement against Chinese military involvement, have Government compromised security?
I reject suggestions about Mauritius being influenced by China or the agreement compromising our interests. Let me be clear: Mauritius is one of two African countries not signed up to the belt and road initiative, and no security interest would be compromised.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific question on Chinese military involvement was not directly answered; instead, a defence against influence claims was given.
Rejecting Suggestions About China'S Influence
Response accuracy