King Expresses ‘Profound Sorrow’ Over Transatlantic Slave Trade at Commonwealth Meeting
The monarch said Britain must confront slavery’s legacy with honesty as Caribbean leaders pressed for an apology and reparatory justice.
- British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated he is open to a formal apology for Britain's historical role in slavery, while rejecting demands for financial reparations ahead of this week's Commonwealth Summit in Antigua and Barbuda.
- Burnham argued that current citizens cannot be held liable for historical wrongs, maintaining the government's resolute position against paying financial compensation for the transatlantic slave trade affecting an estimated 12.5 million Africans.
- King Charles III will address "the most shameful aspects of the past" during his speech on Tuesday, though a spokesperson clarified he would not address specific UK government policy.
- Commonwealth leaders called the potential apology an "essential first step," while former attorney-general Sir Michael Ellis warned such an admission could increase risks of successful legal bids for reparations against the UK.
- A 2026 poll found 23 percent of white respondents support reparations compared with 71 percent of black respondents, as Burnham aims to "launch a new drive on debt" for vulnerable nations.
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33 Articles
"It's impractical": Britain refused to pay reparations for slavery
"It's impractical": Britain refused to pay reparations for slaveryWhen asked if Britain would be able to make an official apology by the time of the G20 summit, which the country will host in Manchester next November, British Foreign Minister Ed...
An apology is necessary, but it is not sufficient: CARICOM Chair responds to Burnham’s remarks on slavery - The Voice St. Lucia News
Ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, United Kingdom Prime Minister The Rt Hon. Andy Burnham expressed regret for the suffering caused by slavery, stating he was open to a formal apology on behalf of the British state and offered a structured dialogue with those affected.
Foreign secretary says acknowledging Britain's role in transatlantic slavery is a sign of strength as government prepares dialogue with affected countries
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