Keir Starmer faces backlash over Chagos Islands handover speech

Keir Starmer faced criticism for his speech defending the planned handover of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. He assured attendees at the UK Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council that this decision would not lead to further territorial giveaways. Critics labeled his speech "deeply embarrassing," highlighting that he had to reassure other territories about their security. Lord Blencathra expressed concerns over trust and the implications of the Chagos deal on relations with other British Overseas Territories. The deal's future is uncertain following Donald Trump's election victory, as his administration has previously criticized the handover. Additionally, the Ministry of Defence may incur significant costs to lease the military base on the islands from Mauritius.