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Diego Garcia: Military Bases

Asked by Mr Mark FrancoisConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 9 June 2025UIN 56699

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to Article 2 of the UK-Mauritius Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia, published on 22 May 2025, whether he plans to put in place (a) further provisions and (b) enforcement mechanisms to ensure that Mauritius cannot impose restrictions on the right to operate the Diego Garcia base following the sovereignty transfer.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The United Kingdom will have full control and responsibility for the defence and security of Diego Garcia. Mauritius has a legally binding obligation under the treaty to not undermine, prejudice or otherwise interfere with the long-term, secure and effective operation of the base. Any future issues that may arise throughout the duration of the treaty shall be resolved through the Joint Commission, as described in Annex 3.

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