UK government's plan to give away British Indian Ocean Territory and lease it back for billions of pounds approved after legal challenge overturned, despite concerns about security and ties to China.
Key Points
Legal bid to prevent the deal was overturned
Diego Garcia contains a vital joint British-American airbase
Mauritius will pay billions to lease back Diego Garcia for 99 years
UK government claims the deal is to protect national security
Pros
UK government believes the deal is necessary for national security
Deal secures continued operation of strategically important military base
Cons
Critics argue surrendering control of islands to Mauritius makes the base vulnerable to spying
Concerns about the cost to British taxpayers and Mauritius' alignment with China