Keir Starmer’s Chagos Islands Deal Sparks Legal Battle Amid Public Outrage and ‘Scandal’ Allegations

Sir Keir Starmer’s agreement to cede the Chagos Islands to Mauritius is facing a legal challenge from campaign group Save the Chagos, backed by Conservative peers.

The group has issued a pre-action legal letter against the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), seeking a judicial review to overturn the decision. They argue that the Labour government is acting unlawfully by ceding the British Indian Ocean Territory without parliamentary approval and based on an “erroneous” understanding of international law. The group also claims the £8.9 billion spending tied to the deal is unlawful.

The Chagos Islands, home to a UK-US military base on Diego Garcia, have been a point of contention for years. The UK plans to hand the islands to Mauritius and lease back the base, citing international rulings favoring Mauritian sovereignty. However, Save the Chagos argues that the Crown cannot undermine Parliament’s sovereignty by ceding territory without its consent.

Conservative peers, including Lord Lilley, Lord Kempsell, and Lord Roberts of Belgravia, are leading the charge. Lord Kempsell criticized the government for the “complete erasure” of the Chagossians from the debate and called for action to address the “scandal.”

Foreign Secretary David Lammy has defended the deal, calling it the “best deal” for addressing legal uncertainties surrounding the base. However, the agreement hinges on the approval of US President Donald Trump, who has indicated he is “inclined to go along with” the plan. The UK is expected to lease Diego Garcia for 99 years, with an option for a 40-year extension.

The FCDO has yet to comment on the legal challenge. The outcome of the judicial review could have significant implications for the future of the Chagos Islands and the UK’s strategic military presence in the region.