During a live GB News broadcast, outrage erupted over the controversial Chagos Islands deal, as it was revealed that British taxpayers could face an £800 million annual cost to lease Diego Garcia, a key naval base. Critics have slammed the deal, calling it a “betrayal of Britain” and accusing Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government of prioritizing foreign interests over the needs of UK citizens.
The Chagos Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the Indian Ocean, are home to Diego Garcia, a vital naval base used by both the UK and the US. The islands are seen as critical for security, particularly in countering China’s influence in the region.
In a deal pushed through by Labour, Britain agreed to hand over the islands to Mauritius and pay £800 million annually to lease the naval base. This agreement also includes billions of pounds in reparations to Mauritius. Critics have questioned why the UK is giving up its territory while paying such a high price to keep the base.
Neil Parish, a former Conservative MP, called the deal “outrageous.” He said:
“It’s shocking to see Britain agreeing to this. These islands are essential for our security, and now we’re being held to ransom. This sets a dangerous precedent for all our overseas territories.”
Others argue the money could be better spent at home. Charlotte Griffiths, from the Mail on Sunday, said:
“At a time when pensioners can’t afford to heat their homes, schools are crumbling, and the NHS is stretched, it’s unforgivable to spend billions on this deal.”
Some, like former Labour advisor Susie Stride, say the deal is necessary to uphold international law.
“The International Court of Justice ruled that Britain doesn’t have sovereignty over these islands. Ignoring that would damage our reputation globally,” she said.
Stride also noted that Chagossians, the native islanders forcibly removed decades ago, deserve reparations.
“We can’t forget the people who were displaced. This deal addresses that injustice,” she added.
Critics argue that Keir Starmer could use the recent election in Mauritius, which ousted the government that signed the original deal, as an opportunity to renegotiate or walk away entirely.
Charlotte Griffiths suggested Starmer could shift the blame:
“The new Mauritian government wants more money, and Trump is returning to the White House soon. Starmer has an opening to say this deal is no longer viable and put Britain first.”
However, others doubt he will act. Parish said:
“He’d rather look good on the world stage than stand up for Britain. This could have been a moment to show strength, but instead, he’s giving away billions.”
With Donald Trump set to return to the White House in January, there’s speculation that the US might refuse to pay its share of the costs, leaving the UK to bear the burden.
The deal has sparked widespread anger, with many calling for transparency and a stronger stance from Starmer. Critics warn that continuing down this path will not only cost billions but could also weaken Britain’s position globally.
For now, the future of the Chagos Islands—and who will pay for their lease—remains uncertain.
