The British government said on Saturday it was suspending its plan to cede control of the Chagos Islands – home to the US-British air base Diego Garcia – which has been criticized by US President Donald Trump.
The British press reported that the planned legislation to support the plan to hand over the islands to Mauritius, which needs the support of Washington, will not be included in the agenda of the next parliament of the government.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office said London would try to persuade Washington to give its formal approval.
Trump said in February that the deal was a “big mistake”, after previously saying it was the best Starmer would get.
Under the deal, Britain would retain control of the key Diego Garcia military base under a 99-year deal that preserves US operations there.
A UK government spokesman said ensuring Diego Garcia’s long-term job security would remain a priority.
