The UK government has announced it will not issue an apology for Britain’s role in the transatlantic slave trade at the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) summit in Samoa, according to a statement from Downing Street. On October 21, Downing Street reaffirmed that the government will not offer reparations for slavery.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer remains firm in his refusal to apologize for the UK’s historical involvement in slavery, as confirmed by his office. Despite increasing pressure, Starmer will attend the biennial Commonwealth meeting in Samoa.
Caribbean leaders have been calling for reparations to address the lasting impacts of the transatlantic slave trade. Additionally, some Labour Party members have reportedly urged Starmer to confront these demands during his visit to the Pacific island.
However, Starmer’s spokesman stated that reparations would not be discussed at the summit. “Reparations are not on the agenda for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting,” he said. “The government’s position remains unchanged; we do not pay reparations. The prime minister is attending to focus on shared challenges and opportunities within the Commonwealth, including economic growth,” he added.
When asked again about issuing an apology, the spokesman reiterated, “The position on apologies remains the same; there will be no apology at CHOGM.” He also noted that while there will be no formal apology, the UK will continue to work with international partners on addressing present and future challenges.