Burnham opens door to formal apology for Britain’s slave trade
Summary
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Britain could discuss issuing a formal apology for its role in the transatlantic slave trade, but ruled out financial reparations. Ahead of a Commonwealth summit in Antigua and Barbuda, he proposed talks with affected countries and groups and an international initiative to ease debt burdens in poorer nations.Key Facts
- Burnham said discussions about an official state apology would form part of talks with countries and groups affected by slavery.
- He expressed sorrow and regret for the suffering of enslaved people but said people in Britain today should not be held liable for historical wrongs.
- Burnham proposed extending repayment periods and lowering interest rates to ease debt burdens in poorer countries.
- Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown will assist with the debt initiative, Burnham said.
- Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley welcomed the prospect of talks and said cooperation could include healthcare, education, development and fairer borrowing terms.
- Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne welcomed the debt proposal and cooperation on renewable energy.
- CARICOM’s 10-point reparations plan includes an apology, support for health and education, and measures to address slavery’s economic and social effects.
- King Charles III is due to attend the summit, but Buckingham Palace said he will not issue a formal apology during his trip.
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