Mr Hamish Falconer

Mr Hamish Falconer

Labour — Lincoln

Speaking in the House of Commons on 25 February 2026

Debate

Diego Garcia and British Indian Ocean Territory

Contribution

Again, there is this desire to suggest that there was no issue, that the 11 rounds of negotiation started by the previous Government were done for no reason and that there was no substance behind our concerns. I quote from US Secretary Hegseth: “Diego Garcia is a vital military base for the US. The UK’s very important deal with Mauritius secures the operational capabilities of the base and key US national security interests… We are confident the base is protected for many years ahead.” We were engaged with a real problem, and we were seeking a real solution. If Members would like more on the particulars around article 298, which I have heard the concerns about and committed to write on, we are very happy to provide it, but this is not a new argument about this treaty.

More from Mr Hamish Falconer

Other recent Hansard contributions by the same speaker.

About Hansard

Hansard is the official verbatim record of proceedings in the UK Parliament. Every word spoken in the Commons and Lords is recorded and published — this page is a single contribution from that record.

For Mr Hamish Falconer's full parliamentary record including voting history, expenses and all other contributions, see the Mr Hamish Falconer report card.

Partner sites