Today (Wednesday, 7th December 2022) I secured a Westminster Hall debate on the sovereignty of The British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT). During the debate I raised concerns about Britain’s decision to enter into negotiations with Mauritius over the transfer of sovereignty.
I expressed my concern about Mauritius's deep economic ties with China, which could allow Beijing to influence Port Louis into utilising BIOT’s outer islands for military purposes. I believe that the whole of BIOT is essential for Britain’s geopolitical strategy of supporting our allies and deterring Chinese belligerence in the region. Transferring sovereignty over BIOT’s outer islands will undermine Britain and America’s ability to maintain security against the growing threat of expansionist China.
To watch the full debate click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3nG6vsNE28&ab_channel=DanielKawczynski