Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is under fire for reportedly considering the surrender of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a move that could have far-reaching implications for UK sovereignty and global security.
The archipelago, officially known as the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), has been a point of contention for decades. Its largest island, Diego Garcia, hosts a strategically vital US military base that has played key roles in operations across the Middle East and Asia.
A Contentious History
The UK retained control of the islands after Mauritius gained independence in 1968, paying £3 million for the territory. However, Mauritius has long claimed sovereignty, winning support from the International Court of Justice in 2019 and the UN General Assembly.
Critics argue that handing over the territory would:
- Compromise a crucial Western military outpost
- Set a dangerous precedent for UK overseas territories
- Potentially allow China to gain influence in the region
Strategic Importance
The Diego Garcia base has been instrumental in operations ranging from the Gulf War to counter-terrorism missions. Its loss could significantly weaken Western military capabilities in the Indian Ocean region.
Meanwhile, Mauritius has positioned itself as a luxury destination for the global elite, with its Prime Minister pledging to maintain the base if sovereignty is transferred. However, concerns remain about potential pressure from other global powers.
Political Fallout
The issue has created divisions within Labour, with some MPs warning against what they see as a retreat from Britain's global responsibilities. Defence experts have expressed alarm at the potential security implications.
As the debate intensifies, Starmer faces growing pressure to clarify his position on what could become one of the most consequential foreign policy decisions of a potential Labour government.
