King refuses apology for slavery but pledges action

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 4 Nov, 03:03 · Archive

King Charles told Commonwealth leaders the transatlantic slave trade fills him with horror and sorrow but declined to apologise.

King Charles addressed Commonwealth leaders at the Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua, saying the transatlantic slave trade 'fills my heart with horror and my soul with the most profound personal sorrow'. However, he stopped short of offering a formal apology for Britain's role in the trade.

The King said his commitment was growing to find ways to 'address the wrongs of the past with action for the future'. He acknowledged that 'the shameful chapter of history still casts a shadow over these islands and other members of our Commonwealth'. The 56-member Commonwealth comprises mostly former British colonies.

The speech came as UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a change in long-established government policy, offering talks on a slavery apology but not financial reparations. The King also noted that 'character and courage can combine to overcome the most monstrous injustice', citing the Royal Navy's role in ending the international slave trade.

How it is being reported

• King stops short of offering apology over slaveryThe King says his greater understanding of the horrors of slavery has made him more determined to address past wrongs but has stopped short of apologising.The West Australian · 3 Nov, 20:27
• ‘Fills my heart with sorrow’: King Charles expresses shame over slave trade, stops short of apologisingThe King says his greater understanding of the horrors of slavery has made him more determined to address past wrongs but stopped short of apologising during an address to presidents at prime ministers at CHOGM.Perth Now · 3 Nov, 20:27
• King stops short of offering apology over slaveryThe King says his greater understanding of the horrors of slavery has made him more determined to address past wrongs but has stopped short of apologising.Perth Now · 3 Nov, 20:27

In this story: King Charles · Andy Burnham · Commonwealth · Antigua · Royal Navy

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