A major political row has erupted after the UK government gave up sovereignty over the Chagos Islands after more than 50 years. The decision has sparked intense debate, with many accusing the government of surrendering key strategic assets.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy defended the move, claiming it would “strengthen the UK’s role in safeguarding global security.” However, critics within the Conservative Party, including leadership contenders, have slammed the agreement as a betrayal of British sovereignty.
Background of the Chagos Islands Deal
The Chagos Islands, located in the Indian Ocean, are home to a UK-US military base on Diego Garcia. The base is strategically important for both nations. Under the new agreement, sovereignty will be transferred to Mauritius, but the military base will continue operating as before.
Chagossians were forced to leave the islands in 1973 to make way for the military base. This has been considered one of Britain’s more shameful colonial actions. For years, Chagossians have campaigned for the right to return. In 2019, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that the UK’s continued administration of the islands was unlawful.
Criticism from Conservative Leadership Contenders
Former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly led the charge against the government. He criticized the move, saying it endangered British strategic interests. However, Cleverly was heavily criticized for hypocrisy as he himself began negotiations with Mauritius over the islands in 2022.
Cleverly’s former colleague, Tom Tugendhat, also spoke out against the decision. He warned that the deal could give China a foothold in the Indian Ocean, creating new security risks for the UK.
A Complex Political Landscape
Supporters of the deal argue that the UK had little choice after losing multiple legal battles over the Chagos Islands. The Biden administration has welcomed the agreement, calling it a “diplomatic success.”
However, critics within the UK say the agreement threatens other territories like Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands, and weakens Britain’s global standing.
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