Slavery apology question looms as King opens Commonwealth meeting

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 00:08 · Archive

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he is open to discussing a formal apology for slavery as King Charles prepares to address the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham met King Charles in Antigua at a Commonwealth Business Forum, the first meeting between the two men since Burnham indicated openness to slavery apology talks. The King will deliver the keynote address opening the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting on Tuesday, a gathering expected to be dominated by the slavery apology and reparations issue.

Burnham said he is open to listening to calls for a formal apology about slavery but ruled out reparations. He has faced criticism from opponents claiming his stance has put the King under pressure. When asked whether he had made things more difficult for the King, Burnham denied this, saying the government is 'reaching out and listening' and aiming to 'bring a new approach to the Commonwealth, and to bring people together'.

Britain's royal family has a long association with the transportation and selling of enslaved people for profit. Elizabeth I backed the dealings of John Hawkins, one of Britain's first slave traders, and Charles II encouraged the expansion of the enterprise. During the abolition campaign, the Duke of Clarence, son of George III and later William IV, opposed the slavery abolitionists.

How it is being reported

• Slavery apology question could be tricky issue for KingThe issue of a slavery apology and reparations has been raised as the King prepares to open the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in the Caribbean.Perth Now · 2 Nov, 23:56
• Slavery apology question could be tricky issue for KingThe issue of a slavery apology and reparations has been raised as the King prepares to open the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in the Caribbean.The West Australian · 2 Nov, 23:56

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

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