Tory Peers Seek to Delay Chagos Islands Handover to Mauritius

Donald Trump's incoming administration may attempt to block the UK's treaty with Mauritius over strategic concerns.

Tory peers, led by Lord Bellingham, plan to introduce an amendment for a referendum among Chagossians, potentially delaying the treaty ratification.
The draft treaty, supported by the Biden administration, would transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius but retain the UK-US military base for 99 years.
Opponents, including Trump's allies, fear the handover could increase China's influence in the Indian Ocean, threatening the strategic Diego Garcia base.
Ed Balls and George Osborne express concerns that Trump's presidency could complicate the treaty, with potential interventions expected.
The treaty remains unsigned, and Mauritius's new government may reconsider the terms, providing Trump an opportunity to influence the outcome.