UK Declines to Issue Apology for Slavery at Commonwealth

The UK government has confirmed that there will be no apology for Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade during the upcoming Commonwealth summit in Samoa, where King Charles and Sir Keir Starmer will be present. A spokesperson from Downing Street has also dismissed the possibility of financial reparations.

Last year, during a visit to Kenya, King Charles expressed his “greatest sorrow and regret” for the colonial era’s wrongdoings but did not issue a formal apology, which would require ministerial approval. The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, scheduled for October 25-26, will gather leaders from 56 countries.

UK Declines to Issue Apology for Slavery at Commonwealth Summit

UK Government Rules Out Apology for Slavery at Commonwealth Summit Amid Calls for Reparations

The UK government has confirmed that there will be no symbolic apology for Britain’s historic links to slavery at the upcoming Commonwealth summit, despite calls for such a gesture from some Labour MPs. While Downing Street previously rejected reparations, it reiterated that the focus at the summit will be on current challenges facing the Commonwealth rather than historical issues.

Speeches by King Charles are made on government advice, meaning he cannot apologize without official approval. This stance continues the policy from the previous government, where Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also dismissed the idea of an apology, citing Britain’s historical role in ending slavery.

The topic of reparations remains contentious, with Caribbean leaders advocating for financial recognition of slavery’s legacy, while public opinion is divided. Some individuals express that current generations should not be held accountable for past actions, while others argue that an apology would acknowledge historical injustices and promote healing. The Commonwealth summit will also address the appointment of a new secretary-general, with candidates supportive of reparations. King Charles and Queen Camilla will first tour Australia before attending the summit in Samoa.