Chagos Deal: Gavin Glover Speaks of Cautious but Confident Progress

Gavin Glover expresses caution yet confidence following the adoption of four amendments in the House of Lords regarding the Chagos Deal. Mauritian authorities are closely monitoring this crucial step towards the recognition of their sovereignty over the islands.

True to his nature, Attorney General Gavin Glover reacts calmly and pragmatically to the outcome of the proposed amendments reviewed in the House of Lords concerning the complex Chagos Deal. Out of the 50 amendments submitted by the Lords, only four were adopted, an outcome he views as more favorable than expected. Mauritian authorities are closely following the developments of this process, which could have significant implications for the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands.

A key point in the debates was the rejection of an amendment proposing a referendum on the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. This issue, central to the dispute between Mauritius and the UK, remains a significant concern. For Gavin Glover, this rejection is a relief, although he acknowledges it is just one step in a legislative process that is far from complete. He emphasizes that, despite ongoing challenges, Mauritian authorities remain optimistic about the final outcome, even if it could be delayed.

The four amendments adopted by the House of Lords are considered procedural, primarily addressing the examination modalities of the bill without directly impacting the sovereignty issue. Although the progress on the matter has not been as swift as initially hoped, the Attorney General seeks to reassure.

"We thought there would be more amendments. This will certainly delay the process, but we believe we will still be on track before the end of the financial year," he stated.

He notes that the first disbursement of Rs 10 billion, scheduled between May and June 2026 as per the original timeline, is still on the agenda. This projection, although slightly adjusted, remains realistic and reflects the Mauritian authorities' commitment to see this matter through.

Following the adoption of the amendments by the Lords, the bill will be sent to the House of Commons. According to Gavin Glover, there is a strong likelihood that Members of Parliament, where Keir Starmer's Labour Party holds a majority, will reject the proposed amendments. Such a scenario could significantly diminish the influence of the House of Lords in the continuation of the procedure.

"The ping-pong match might just be a simple back and forth, and in the end, it will have little impact if the Labour Party maintains its majority in the Commons," he explained.

This phase could lead to a temporary slowdown in the process, before a more vigorous continuation once the final decision is made by the House of Commons.

Despite the uncertainties, Gavin Glover remains optimistic about the upcoming deadlines. When asked about a potential trip to London, the Attorney General indicates he does not plan to go there before obtaining royal assent from King Charles III, expected around February or March 2026. This step could mark a decisive turning point, paving the way for more direct and potentially favorable discussions for Mauritius.

The path remains fraught with challenges, but the course is maintained. For Mauritian authorities, the objective remains unchanged: to secure recognition of Mauritius's sovereignty over the Chagos Islands while patiently and diplomatically navigating the intricacies of the British legislative process.