UK Prime Minister Burnham Open to Slavery Apology but Rejects Reparations

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham says he is open to a formal apology for Britain’s part in the slave trade, though he will not support financial reparations. His comments come ahead of next week’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, where he is expected to face pressure on the issue. Burnham said Britain is offering a structured dialogue with people affected by the transatlantic slave trade, in which at least 12.5 million Africans were abducted and sold. Listening to calls for a state apology, he wrote, will be an important part of that process.

Why Burnham Says No to Reparations

Burnham argued that British people today cannot be held liable for historical wrongs, however terrible, that took place under different laws and in which they played no personal part. Britain is estimated to have transported around 3.2 million people across the Atlantic between the 15th and 19th centuries.

Caribbean Leaders and the Push for Reparatory Justice

King Charles, currently touring the Caribbean, said it is only right to acknowledge the great suffering and injustices of the past. Caribbean leaders are expected to frame their demands around debt relief, development finance, education, healthcare and climate resilience. Burnham also promised a new drive on debt, helping vulnerable countries repay over longer periods and at better rates. Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne welcomed the practical proposals but stressed that the region’s long held position on reparatory justice has not changed.