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Chagos Islands Handover Delayed Amid Labour Backlash

5/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Downing Street has postponed the Chagos Islands handover to Mauritius, fearing backlash from Labour MPs over a contentious £90 million annual settlement. With the deal poised for signing after US objections were resolved, tensions rise as Labour braces for welfare cuts. Ministers are determined to push the bill forward in June, despite growing internal dissent.

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Story summary

Downing Street has postponed the Chagos Islands handover to Mauritius, fearing backlash from Labour MPs over a contentious £90 million annual settlement. With the deal poised for signing after US objections were resolved, tensions rise as Labour braces for welfare cuts. Ministers are determined to push the bill forward in June, despite growing internal dissent.