Member

Reading the debate from the first day in Committee, I was pleased to see that the precedent provided by the Gilbert and Ellice Islands was mentioned—as it should have been—following the publication of the Chagossian statement of self-determination the day before. Although reference was made to the Gilbert and Ellice Islands precedent, it is worth hearing direct from the Chagossians as I seek to apply its significance to the question of civic identity raised by my amendment. I make no apology for quoting them at some length in Committee after the way that we have treated them. I am glad to see that some are in the Gallery this evening. I welcome them.