Keir Starmer agrees to pay billions for Chagos Islands deal
- Sir Keir Starmer has received legal advice indicating Britain's likely loss in a Hague court regarding the Chagos Islands.
- Under the agreement, the UK will pay Mauritius £90 million annually for 99 years to lease back Diego Garcia.
- Critics argue that this action compromises a strategically vital British territory and undermines national security.
In a significant diplomatic development regarding the Chagos Islands, the United Kingdom's Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer, has committed to a long-term financial agreement with Mauritius, based on legal advice suggesting a losing position for Britain in a potential court case at the Hague. This strategic decision came to light amid rising tensions concerning Britain's claim to the Chagos archipelago, particularly Diego Garcia, known for its prominent U.S. naval base. Starmer's agreement entails an annual payment escalating with inflation, which will be active for a lengthy 99 years. The negotiations reflect an attempt to mitigate risks associated with a loss of territorial command, a point of national security concern that has raised objections among critics. Starmer's alliance with legal advisers, including the attorney general, Richard Hermer, has drawn scrutiny, with detractors arguing that this approach threatens British interests. Discussions between Britain and the U.S. are ongoing as both nations seek to cooperate in defense matters while navigating changing geopolitical landscapes, indicating the complexity and implications of the Chagos Islands' future under this new agreement.