The UK government has confirmed that there will be no official apology regarding Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade during the upcoming Commonwealth summit in Samoa, where King Charles and Sir Keir Starmer are expected to attend next week.
A spokesperson from Downing Street has emphasized that there are no plans to issue an apology, aligning with previous rejections of financial reparations for the slave trade. While King Charles expressed his “greatest sorrow and regret” over colonial-era wrongdoings during a visit to Kenya last year, he did not extend an apology, as such a statement would require government approval.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, scheduled for October 25-26, will gather leaders from 56 nations. Despite potential discussions surrounding historical slavery links, the focus will remain on contemporary challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth, according to government officials.
Government policies regarding apologies are influenced by ministerial advice, which means the King cannot independently make any statements about Britain’s historical ties to slavery without government consent. Labour MPs have previously urged the government to acknowledge its past with an official apology.
David Lammy, now serving as Foreign Secretary, had highlighted the issue of reparations in discussions around the Windrush scandal, advocating for compensation related to the historical grievances. However, under the current leadership, Downing Street has reiterated its stance against both apologies and reparations, maintaining a continuity of policy from prior administrations.
Critics of an apology point to Britain’s role in abolishing the slave trade through legislation enacted in 1807. Nevertheless, Caribbean leaders have insisted on the necessity of financial recognition for the legacies of slavery, with estimates suggesting reparations could amount to £200 billion.
The Commonwealth summit will also address the selection of a new secretary-general, with all candidates supporting reparations for historical injustices. Public opinion on this matter remains deeply divided, highlighting differing views on accountability and historical legacy.
As the King and Queen Camilla embark on their tour of Australia before heading to Samoa, discussions regarding Britain’s historical actions continue to resonate in both national and global contexts.
