No Apology for Britain’s Role: King Charles Says Slave Trade Legacy Fills His Heart With Horror

Charles reflects on the past

Charles spoke Tuesday to leaders from the Commonwealth’s 56 member states, saying he had deepened his understanding by listening and learning. He described the trade in enslaved people as a continuing shadow over Caribbean islands and other Commonwealth members.

He said the history brought him horror and profound personal sorrow. Charles urged leaders to learn from the past, while saying that people today cannot change earlier generations’ actions.

No apology or reparations

The king did not apologize for Britain’s role in the slave trade and made no remarks about reparations. Instead, he said leaders should look ahead while confronting what he called a monstrous injustice, so that evil would not have the last word.

Apologies and possible financial reparations have dominated discussion ahead of the meeting. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has previously said he could be open to an apology.

Focus on future partnerships

Charles and Burnham have presented the summit as a chance to build future partnerships. They have highlighted healthcare, education and climate protection for people facing hardship and disadvantage.

Burnham said he wanted to discuss debt resets for smaller Commonwealth countries. He also announced a €48.2 million investment in Caribbean critical infrastructure over the next three years.

Britain’s role in the trade

Britain entered the institutionalized slave trade in the 17th century and soon surpassed other European powers. British subjects were barred from the trade by the Slave Trade Act of 1807, and slavery was abolished across the British Empire under the 1833 Slavery Abolition Act.