House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
British Indian Ocean Territory / Chagos Archipelago
03 November 2022 · Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
Proposed by James Cleverly Con Braintree
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- James Cleverly announces the UK will begin negotiations with Mauritius over the sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory.
- The UK and Mauritius aim to reach an agreement by early next year through constructive dialogue.
- Negotiations will focus on security, environment, human rights, and illegal activities while addressing the issues of former Chagos Archipelago inhabitants.
Issue summary
James Cleverly discusses the decision to begin negotiations between the UK and Mauritius regarding sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT)/Chagos Archipelago.
Action requested
The statement announces that the UK and Mauritius will engage in constructive negotiations, aiming to reach an agreement by early next year, while ensuring cooperation on security, environment, human rights, and illegal activities. The UK aims to secure an agreement based on international law to resolve issues related to the former inhabitants of the Chagos Archipelago.
Key facts
- UK and Mauritius will begin negotiations on sovereignty over BIOT/Chagos Archipelago.
- Negotiations aim to arrive at an agreement by early next year.
- The joint UK/US military base on Diego Garcia will continue to operate effectively.
- Cooperation on Indian Ocean security, maritime security, marine protection, and environmental conservation is planned.