UK PM Burnham open to slavery apology but rejects reparations
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he is open to a formal apology for historical slavery but ruled out financial reparations.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated he is open to a formal apology regarding Britain's historical role in slavery, according to reports by the Deccan Herald and The Economic Times. This comes ahead of next week's Commonwealth summit in Antigua and Barbuda, where he is expected to face demands for financial reparations.
Writing in the Guardian, Burnham said Britain is providing a structured way to talk with those impacted by the transatlantic slave trade. He noted that at least 12.5 million Africans were abducted and sold into slavery during this period.
Burnham rejected calls for financial reparations, stating that current British citizens should not be held liable for historical wrongs that occurred under different laws in a different era. He said they played no personal part in those events.
The Transatlantic Slave Trade Database indicates that Britain transported an estimated 3.2 million people across the Atlantic between the 15th and 19th centuries. During this time, millions of Africans were sold into slavery by European traders.
Burnham also expressed interest in starting a new debt initiative to help vulnerable nations repay loans with better rates and over longer periods. Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne welcomed the proposal for practical assistance but noted the Caribbean's position on reparatory justice remains unchanged.
King Charles, who is touring the Caribbean, said it is right to acknowledge past injustices and suffering. A spokesperson for the King said he would not avoid confronting shameful aspects of the past during his visit.