§ 24. Mr. James Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when Her Majesty's Government are to begin paying the Mauritius Government for the future use of the proposed base upon the island of Diego Garcia; and whether any terms are attached.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. John Stonehouse)The agreed compensation of £3 million for the transfer of the Chagos Archipelago, which includes Diego Garcia to the British Indian Ocean Territory, for possible defence use, was paid in full to Mauritius last March. No conditions were made as to the uses to which the money should be put.
§ Mr. JohnsonIs my hon. Friend aware that his firm and clear Answer will give satisfaction in Mauritius? Is he aware that a smear campaign is being waged by the opposition party in Mauritius, which is semi-fascist, against the Coalition Labour Government? Will he give a guarantee on this matter and instruct the Acting Governor to take action against these hooligans who are disrupting public meetings in the island?
§ Mr. StonehouseThat is another question. I hope that my original Answer will help to allay any anxiety that may exist in Mauritius.
§ Mr. KershawIf money has been paid for Diego Garcia, why did the Secretary of State for Defence say to me the other day that no costs have been incurred in respect of this absolutely useless island?
§ Mr. StonehouseThat question should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence.