UK-Mauritius Treaty Chagos Islands 2025-04-01
2025-04-01
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the financial implications of a proposed treaty with Mauritius regarding sovereignty over the Chagos Islands. The treaty involves continued operation of the base on Diego Garcia and substantial funding not mentioned in recent fiscal statements.
Why has the Government decided to give away sovereign British territory along with billions of pounds to Mauritius without disclosing where this money is coming from? My question was very simple, and it is one to which the British people deserve an answer. The money for the treaty was not referred to in the spring statement or in the Budget.
This Government will not scrimp on security. The base on Diego Garcia will be secured for ourselves and our allies. Protecting the British people and our allies is our No. 1 priority, and full details will be provided in due course.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific financial commitments and budget allocations not addressed
Protecting Security Is A Priority
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP criticises the Government for front-loading payments to Mauritius in exchange for retaining control over Diego Garcia and other economic concessions. The deal's secrecy is questioned, including which budgets will cover lease costs and unilateral renewal provisions.
Why does the Minister refuse to disclose the amount of money involved in the UK-Mauritius surrender deal? Why are details about budget allocations unclear? Will he confirm whether the Prime Minister of Mauritius' statement regarding concessions is correct, including loss of sovereign rights on Diego Garcia and inability to renew leases unilaterally? When will this treaty come before Parliament for debate?
The hon. Member neglects to remind the House that it was his Government who started negotiations on this matter because they recognised that our national security interests and those of our allies were under threat. A financial element was crucial to protecting the operation of that crucial base. Once the treaty is signed, and after ratification in the usual way, it will be put before both Houses for scrutiny, and it will of course include costs. The Government will not scrimp on our security. Protecting the British people is our No. 1 priority.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific financial details and budget allocations not disclosed
Protecting National Security Is A Priority
Response accuracy