Starmer defends UK ceding control of Chagos Islands amid Tory criticism

Keir Starmer has justified the relinquishing of Britain's control over the Chagos Islands, as this decision has sparked a political blame game among those vying for leadership in the Conservative Party.

The prime minister stated that the deal with Mauritius regarding the islands would ensure the lasting presence of a combined US-UK military base on Diego Garcia, which he considered to be the "most crucial aspect."

Opponents of the agreement argue that it could enable China to establish a military presence in the Indian Ocean, raising worries about the prospects for other British territories abroad.

Although Labour approved the final decision, it was actually the Conservatives who initially signaled that the UK was willing to engage in talks with Mauritius. These discussions began during Liz Truss's time in office.

James Cleverly, who was the foreign secretary at the time and is now running for leadership of the Conservative Party, kicked off the discussions by expressing his wish to wrap them up by the end of 2023.

Labour's choice seems to have caused a division in Cleverly's leadership campaign. Grant Shapps, the former MP and current chair of Cleverly's campaign, stated that he was the one who prevented the agreement from going through.

Shapps stated on X: "When I held the position of defence secretary, I was deeply worried about the independence of the Chagos Islands, which is why I halted the deal from moving forward. Today, the current government has declared that it is giving up our control over the archipelago, including the crucial military site of Diego Garcia."

Boris Johnson, the former Conservative prime minister, described the decision to relinquish control of the Chagos Islands as “insane.” In an interview with GB News, he questioned the rationale behind the move, suggesting it stems from an urge for political correctness and a wish to present ourselves as benevolent, as well as a drive to distance from the remnants of our colonial past.

"This is ridiculous. From a geopolitical standpoint, it's a terrible idea, as the base in Diego Garcia holds significant strategic value for the US and the West. It's a vital part of the Anglo-American partnership and has been for many years."

A spokesperson for Truss, however, held Johnson responsible for the choice made. “Boris Johnson was the one who requested Liz to discuss this matter with the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Jugnauth, during COP26, and she followed through. However, she was very clear that we would never give up the territory.”

Tom Tugendhat, who opposes Cleverly’s leadership, expressed disapproval towards his fellow party members regarding the situation. He called it “shameful that these discussions began while we were in charge.”

Jonathan Powell, Starmer’s special representative for negotiations between the UK and Mauritius, who facilitated the agreement, dismissed the "absurd" criticism from the Tories. He pointed out that Cleverly had previously taken a very active role in the discussions.

When reporters asked the Prime Minister if any other British overseas territories would be handed over under Labour, he responded by emphasizing that the top priority was maintaining a secure base—the joint US-UK base. He noted that this base is vital for both the United States and the UK.

"We've achieved that, and that's the reason you heard such positive statements from the US yesterday."

The deal regarding the ongoing presence of UK and US military forces on Diego Garcia is anticipated to last for 99 years, with the possibility of an extension. In return, Britain will make annual payments.