Andy Burnham has asked countries affected by Britain’s role in slavery to help shape a formal apology through a ‘structured dialogue’. During the prime minister’s visit to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, Downing Street said affected countries would play an indispensable role in crafting an enduring message. Though the plans for talks were received positively, the British government is still ruling out the idea of paying reparations, which for decades campaigners have been calling for. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s Caribbean correspondent, Natricia Duncan – watch on YouTube
Will the UK finally pay slavery reparations? – The Latest
In short
British officials are initiating talks with nations impacted by transatlantic enslavement to collaboratively draft an enduring formal apology. Downing Street underscored this cooperative approach during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Antigua and Barbuda. However, the government firmly maintains its longstanding refusal to provide any financial compensation to affected states. Andy Burnham specifically called for a structured dialogue to ensure impacted countries help shape the wording of the statement.
Key points
- The United Kingdom is actively engaging affected Commonwealth partners to formulate a las…: The United Kingdom is actively engaging affected Commonwealth partners to formulate a lasting apology for historical slavery.
- Proposals to coordinate on the official statement have been met with a positive reception…: Proposals to coordinate on the official statement have been met with a positive reception from international partners.
- Longstanding activist demands for financial redress remain completely blocked by current…: Longstanding activist demands for financial redress remain completely blocked by current British government policy.