UK government shelves legislation to return Chagos Islands to Mauritius

The UK government has abandoned plans to pass legislation returning the Chagos Islands to Mauritius following the withdrawal of US support.

The decision comes amid criticism from former US President Donald Trump, who described the deal as an "act of great stupidity" and a "big mistake." The agreement included a provision for the UK and US to lease back the military base on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos archipelago, for 99 years.

This base is a key strategic asset for both countries.

Officials confirmed that the legislation enabling the handover has not been introduced in Parliament during the current session, which is due to end soon.

As a result, the bill is no longer expected to be included in the government's forthcoming legislative agenda.

The shelving of the deal highlights deteriorating UK-US relations, particularly following Trump's criticism of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's handling of the Iran war and broader disputes with NATO allies.

A government spokesperson emphasized that ensuring the long-term operational security of the Diego Garcia base remains a priority and that the deal was considered the best way to protect its future.

However, they stated the government would only proceed with the agreement if it had US backing.

The deal had initially received support from the US State Department and was hailed as a "monumental achievement." Trump initially endorsed the agreement during Starmer's visit to the White House but later reversed his position multiple times.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the plan, calling for it to be consigned to the "ash heap of history" and condemning the proposed transfer of British sovereign territory while paying substantial sums to maintain access to the military base.

The UK government has argued that the agreement is necessary to secure the future of the Diego Garcia base, especially following a 2019 advisory ruling by the International Court of Justice supporting Mauritius's sovereignty claims over the islands.

What remains unclear is whether the UK government will be able to regain US support to revive the deal or if the handover will be permanently shelved, leaving the future status of the Chagos Islands and the Diego Garcia base uncertain.

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