Speeches made during Parliamentary debates are recorded in Hansard. For ease of browsing we have grouped debates into individual, departmental and legislative categories.
These initiatives were driven by Lord Dubs, and are more likely to reflect personal policy preferences.
A Bill to make provision for the presumption against the granting of planning permission in respect of subterranean development where certain conditions apply; and for connected purposes
First reading took place on 15 May. This stage is a formality that signals the start of the Bill's journey through the Lords.Second reading - the general debate on all aspects of the Bill - is yet to be scheduled. A Bill to make provision for members of the House of Lords to vote at elections to the House of Commons
Lord Dubs has not co-sponsored any Bills in the current parliamentary sitting
BIOT is not a suitable long-term location for the migrants which is why we are working to find a lasting solution.
The BIOT Administration has taken careful note of the UNHCR's recommendations on the safeguarding and welfare of the migrants. The welfare and safety of migrants on BIOT is the Administration's top priority. They are provided with food, telecoms, education and recreational facilities, and 24-hours-a-day medical support., to the extent to which this is possible in Diego Garcia.
The BIOT Administration has worked to put appropriate safeguarding and social care systems in place for the migrants. All allegations of criminality are fully investigated, with criminal charges brought where appropriate.
The migrant camp is situated within the UK-US military facility in Diego Garcia. The facility is vital for regional and global security; both countries work to ensure its secure and effective operation.
The FCDO continues to work with the BIOT Administration and the U.S. Government to enable the BIOT Supreme Court hearing to go ahead in a manner that respects the unique context on Diego Garcia.
There are currently 56 Tamil migrants in Diego Garcia, and a further 8 in Rwanda for medical treatment that could not be provided in Diego Garcia.
The FCDO provides funding to the BIOT Administration to help support the good governance of the Territory. This funding includes all costs associated with temporarily supporting the migrants on BIOT and supporting their departure from the territory. In FY 23/24, the FCDO provided £29.3million of funding. BIOT is constitutionally distinct and separate from the UK and is administered by the BIOT Administration. The FCDO does not hold a record of a detailed expenditure breakdown. However, the Administration has confirmed that the majority of funding was spent on supporting migrants.
The BIOT Administration has prioritised the welfare and safety of migrants on BIOT at all times. They receive dedicated 24-hour-a day medical care from a medical team formed of doctors, paramedics, registered nurses and mental health practitioners as well as food, accommodation, education, telecoms and recreational facilities.