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Urgent Question on the future of Chagos Islanders

17 November 2016 (updated on 17 November 2016)

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Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister, Sir Alan Duncan, responded to an Urgent Question asked by Andrew Rosindell, MP for Romford,  on the future of the people of the Chagos Islands.

Shadow Foreign Secretary, Emily Thornberry, responded to the statement on behalf of the opposition.

Related information

House of Commons Library analysis

The House of Commons Library produces briefing papers to inform MPs and their staff of key issues. The papers contain factual information and a range of opinions on each subject, and aim to be politically impartial.

The Library has published a briefing paper on disputes over the British Indian Ocean Territory which contains more information.

About Urgent Questions

At times MPs may want to put an urgent question to a Minister. If a matter of public importance has arisen, which an MP believes requires an immediate answer from a government minister, they may apply to the Speaker to put forward such a question.

The relevant government department would be informed at once.

If the Speaker agrees, the question will be asked after that day’s Question Time.

Once the MP has asked the main question, they are allowed to ask a supplementary question. Other MPs will then be called to ask further questions on the same subject.

Watching proceedings from the public gallery

UK residents and overseas visitors can watch proceedings in the House of Commons by visiting the public gallery.

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