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Diego Garcia: Military Bases

Asked by Mr Mark FrancoisConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 9 June 2025UIN 54654

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 3(f) of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what mechanism will be put in place to ensure any joint decision with the Government of Mauritius on the (a) construction and (b) emplacement of any (i) maritime installation, (ii) sensor, (iii) structure and (iv) artificial island does affect Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia operations.

Answered by Luke Pollard

A Joint Commission will oversee implementation of the treaty and will discuss issues relating to the effective operation of the base on Diego Garcia. No joint decision can be taken in the Joint Commission without UK agreement. Additionally, under the Treaty Mauritius commits not to undermine, prejudice or otherwise interfere with the long-term, secure and effective operation of the base.

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