Story perspectives

UK Delays Chagos Islands Transfer Amid US Military Concerns

4/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

The UK government will not pass legislation to cede the Chagos Islands to Mauritius before the King's Speech, according to Minister Stephen Doughty.
Delays are attributed to the United States' opposition to the Diego Garcia military base.
A deal signed last year would transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while leasing the Diego Garcia base back for 99 years at an estimated cost of £3.4 billion.
Critics say the true cost could reach £35 billion.

History

Historical Context

In 1965, the UK detached the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius to establish the British Indian Ocean Territory, facilitating the US military base at Diego Garcia. This separation, occurring just before Mauritius gained independence in 1968, has been deemed unlawful by the International Court of Justice. Ongoing disputes over sovereignty highlight the lasting impact of colonial decisions on regional politics and the rights of the displaced Chagossian people.

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Story summary

The UK government will not pass legislation to cede the Chagos Islands to Mauritius before the King's Speech, according to Minister Stephen Doughty.
Delays are attributed to the United States' opposition to the Diego Garcia military base.
A deal signed last year would transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while leasing the Diego Garcia base back for 99 years at an estimated cost of £3.4 billion.
Critics say the true cost could reach £35 billion.

1 / 2