King to address slavery in Antigua as PM says he is open to possible UK apology
King Charles III will deliver a speech to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting on Tuesday as he concludes his nine-day Caribbean tour.
By BBC News
King Charles III is due to address Commonwealth leaders about the legacy of slavery during a meeting in Antigua on Tuesday.
The speech will come as the King concludes a nine-day tour of the Caribbean. Buckingham Palace said he would speak with “unflinching honesty” and “sincere sorrow” about the lasting pain caused by the transatlantic slave trade.
Charles, who is head of the Commonwealth, will deliver the opening address at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.
The issue of slavery is expected to feature in discussions between leaders from the Commonwealth’s 56 member states. The meeting is being held against the backdrop of renewed calls for Britain to formally acknowledge its role in the slave trade.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he is open to the possibility of a formal UK apology. He has also said the government is prepared to hold structured discussions with people affected by the transatlantic slave trade.
The British government has never formally apologised for slavery or offered reparations.
Mr Burnham said he felt sorrow and regret for the suffering of millions, while ruling out consideration of financial reparations.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne said in an address marking the country’s independence that the history of slavery remained painful and that its consequences had not disappeared over time.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said it would not be appropriate for the King to comment on matters of policy relating to the UK government’s position.
The King’s speech is expected to acknowledge the historical suffering and wider discussions taking place between Commonwealth governments.