Story perspectives

UK Government Delays £30 Billion Chagos Islands Deal

11/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The government delayed Sir Keir Starmer's Chagos Islands deal after a potential House of Lords defeat and announced the bill will not proceed to committee.
The May treaty would transfer sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritius, costing the UK £30 billion over 99 years.
Campaigners, including Christopher Howarth from the Centre for Better Britain, welcomed the delay, arguing it conflicts with Labour's manifesto and Chagossians' wishes.

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Story summary

The government delayed Sir Keir Starmer's Chagos Islands deal after a potential House of Lords defeat and announced the bill will not proceed to committee.
The May treaty would transfer sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritius, costing the UK £30 billion over 99 years.
Campaigners, including Christopher Howarth from the Centre for Better Britain, welcomed the delay, arguing it conflicts with Labour's manifesto and Chagossians' wishes.