Chagos Arrivals Trigger Debate on Rising Housing Costs

The ongoing debate surrounding the rising housing costs in the UK has been compounded by recent arrivals from the Chagos Islands. The UK government contends that the influx of Chagossians arriving in the country is unrelated to its deal with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands. Historically, the UK transformed the Chagos Islands into a military base in the 1960s, resulting in the forced displacement of the local population.

Chagossians’ Citizenship Rights and Recent Developments

In 2002, some Chagossians received full British citizenship. This marked a significant change for the community, which faced numerous challenges due to their displacement, primarily to Mauritius and the Seychelles. By November 2022, the UK government launched a new nationality route, allowing individuals of Chagossian descent worldwide to claim British citizenship at no cost.

• Chagossians have five years from November 23, 2022, to apply for British nationality.
• Children born during this period will have until the age of 23 to apply.

This initiative preceded a controversial agreement between the UK and Mauritius regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. Under this deal, the UK agreed to pay £101 million annually for 99 years to maintain control over the military facility on Diego Garcia, the largest of the islands. Many Chagossians view this arrangement as a betrayal, desiring the UK’s continued sovereignty to facilitate their eventual return to their homeland.

Personal Accounts from Recent Arrivals

Damien Dursonial, aged 35, recently arrived in the UK with his wife and two young children. Originally from Mauritius, he worked as a police constable before relocating. To afford the journey, Mr. Dursonial saved for two years and even sold his motorcycle for airfare.

“I chose the UK because it offers safety and recognizes me as a British citizen,” he stated. In Mauritius, he faced significant threats for identifying as British and for advocating UK sovereignty over the Chagos Islands. After arriving, his family was placed in temporary accommodation by Hillingdon Council in West London.

Impact on Local Communities and Councils

Mr. Dursonial criticized the UK government’s handling of the situation, highlighting the burden placed on local councils. Hillingdon Council incurred approximately £1.2 million in expenses related to supporting new arrivals. He emphasized the need for government action, asserting that responsibility should not fall solely on local authorities while the UK taxpayers underwrite payments to Mauritius.

• Arrival and accommodation costs place a strain on local councils.
• £1.2 million was spent by Hillingdon Council on support for arrivals.

The housing situation and rising costs are pivotal issues for Chagossians settling in the UK, as they navigate their new lives amid the broader implications of the Chagos Islands’ status. The debate over these housing costs is likely to continue as more individuals make their way to the UK.