Nigel Farage’s latest ally is under scrutiny for alleged hypocrisy following the emergence of another letter where he urged the UK to give up the Chagos Islands.
Andrew Rosindell corresponded with then-Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in 2021, expressing concerns that the UK’s stance was damaging its credibility. This development follows the revelation of a prior letter to Joe Biden in which he emphasized the need for the US to assist in “decolonizing” the territory.
Rosindell has criticized the Government’s decision to return the islands to Mauritius, prompting his defection to Reform, citing the Tories’ failure to challenge the handling of the Chagos issue as a key reason for his move.
In a recent Talk TV interview, he criticized the Tories for engaging in talks with Mauritius, labeling it a “betrayal” of national security. However, his past letters suggest he advocated for a similar resolution.
Labour has accused him of distorting facts after the documents surfaced. In his note to Raab, Rosindell emphasized the importance of abiding by an International Court of Justice ruling, which mandated the UK to relinquish sovereignty over the islands.
As the chairman of the Chagos Islands All Party Parliamentary Group, Rosindell advocated for a comprehensive settlement aligned with international consensus to resolve the longstanding diplomatic challenges associated with the islands.
The surfaced letters have led to criticism from various quarters, with former Tory MP Sir Simon Clarke expressing disappointment in the unfolding events. Meanwhile, Donald Trump, Biden’s successor, criticized the Chagos Islands agreement despite his administration’s prior support.
Labour MP Luke Charters highlighted the perceived hypocrisy in Rosindell’s actions, pointing out his history of advocating for the very outcome he now opposes.
Rosindell’s letter underscored that Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos Islands would not jeopardize US security interests, affirming the UK’s commitment to return the islands to Mauritius when no longer essential for defense purposes.
The UK and Mauritius finalized an agreement in May for the transfer of Chagos to Mauritius after being under British control for two centuries. Both Mr. Rosindell and Reform UK have stood by his consistent support for the self-determination of the Chagossian people.
For further comments, The Mirror has reached out to Mr. Rosindell.