UK PM Burnham says he is ‘open’ to formal apology for slavery, but rules out reparations

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated he is willing to entertain discussions on offering a formal apology for Britain's historical involvement in slavery, as he prepares to attend the upcoming Commonwealth summit. In an op-ed for the Guardian, Burnham stated that Britain is "open to a structured dialogue with those affected by the transatlantic slave trade", acknowledging that at least 12.5 million Africans were forcibly taken from their homes and sold into slavery.

While Burnham is receptive to the idea of a formal apology, he firmly rejected calls for financial reparations, arguing that modern-day British citizens cannot be held responsible for historical injustices that occurred under different circumstances and laws. The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database reveals that millions of Africans were subjected to slavery across the centuries from the 15th to the 19th.

During the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, King Charles affirmed his commitment to addressing the "most shameful aspects of the past" during his visit. However, King Charles' office stressed that it would not be appropriate for him to address matters of policy directly related to the UK government's position.

Caribbean leaders are expected to press for reparations during the summit, often demanding debt relief, development finance, education, healthcare, and climate resilience assistance. Burnham also proposed a new drive for debt relief, aiming to help vulnerable countries repay their debts over a longer period with more favorable terms.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne welcomed Burnham's proposals for practical assistance but reiterated the Caribbean's ongoing stance on reparatory justice.