Britain Faces Mounting Pressure for Slavery Apology Amid Royal Tour, Commonwealth Summit

The Prime Minister expressed personal sorrow and regret for the suffering caused by the transatlantic slave trade. He stated, "I want to express my sorrow and regret for the pain and suffering of so many millions and to recognise the way it still shapes our world today."

He stopped short of offering consideration for reparation payments. The Prime Minister stated, "Some have called for financial reparations for the slave trade. I do not believe that is the right answer. I do not think that British people today can be held liable for historical wrongs, however heinous, that happened in a different age under different laws and in which they played no personal part."

Denis O'Brien, a prominent voice in the reparations debate, claimed the Prime Minister's statement disappointed. He asserted it would not quell the demand for an apology from the 15 Caricom countries. O'Brien asserted, "The British Government must stop obfuscating and give a full and formal apology now. This would be a significant and symbolic first step towards reparatory justice."

English authorities and the monarchy participated prominently in the slave trade from the 16th Century. The UK finished paying off a debt incurred to compensate British plantation owners for the loss of their slaves in 2015.

Andy Burnham indicated openness to a formal apology from Britain for its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Burnham stated, "We are offering a structured dialogue with those affected by the transatlantic slave trade. Listening to calls for a formal apology on behalf of the British state will form an important part of this process and I am open to them."

Burnham will travel to Antigua and Barbuda for a meeting of Commonwealth leaders. He believes British people today cannot be held liable for historical wrongs, echoing the Prime Minister's sentiment. Burnham stated, "I do not think that British people today can be held liable for historical wrongs, however heinous, that happened in a different age under different laws and in which they played no personal part."

The Prime Minister stated he wants to offer a 'structured dialogue' with those affected by the transatlantic slave trade. He also emphasised Britain's historical role in abolishing the slave trade, stating, "We led the world in abolishing slavery – and we can show leadership again today."

The UK will support countries with the transition to renewable energy, give smaller countries a louder voice, and build on work to educate women and girls. Downing Street believes strengthening the Commonwealth serves the UK's interest in a world where China and Russia seek to exert influence.