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Starmer's Friend Faces Backlash Over Chagos Islands Deal

2/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Philippe Sands KC, a close friend of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, received payment for negotiating the Chagos Islands' cession to Mauritius, a deal that sparked controversy.
Sands served as legal counsel from 2010 to 2024 and helped secure an £8 million deal.
Labour MP Graham Stringer accused Sands of prioritizing foreign interests over Britain.
Sands argued UK occupation of Chagos Islands is illegal under international law.

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Story summary

Philippe Sands KC, a close friend of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, received payment for negotiating the Chagos Islands' cession to Mauritius, a deal that sparked controversy.
Sands served as legal counsel from 2010 to 2024 and helped secure an £8 million deal.
Labour MP Graham Stringer accused Sands of prioritizing foreign interests over Britain.
Sands argued UK occupation of Chagos Islands is illegal under international law.