Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has said the UK government will carry out a review of a deal relating to the Chagos Islands, telling the BBC the decision followed a lack of backing from the United States.
Streeting pointed to comments made by Donald Trump to Andy Burnham in which the deal was described as "terrible", and said the absence of US support had prompted the review. He confirmed the matter would be looked at again by ministers.
The arrangement involving the Chagos Islands has been a subject of political attention, and Streeting’s announcement signals a fresh examination of the government's position. In his interview with the BBC he framed the review as a response to the changed diplomatic circumstances.
Streeting did not set out a timetable or detailed scope for the review in the interview. The defence secretary’s statement is the latest development in an issue that has attracted public and parliamentary interest, and further details are expected as ministers consider next steps.