King Charles III is predicted to talk candidly concerning the lasting hurt attributable to the transatlantic slave commerce when he addresses Commonwealth leaders in Antigua on Tuesday.
Buckingham Palace mentioned the King would confront the “most shameful aspects” of Britain’s previous with “unflinching honesty” and “sincere sorrow”, whereas respecting ongoing discussions amongst governments concerning the problem.
His remarks come after Prime Minister Andy Burnham mentioned he was open to the UK formally apologising for its position in slavery, marking a shift within the authorities’s place. The Palace was reportedly knowledgeable of Burnham’s feedback earlier than they had been revealed, however the King’s speech has not been modified in response.
Britain has by no means formally apologised for slavery or agreed to pay reparations. Asked whether or not the King would touch upon the federal government’s coverage, a Palace spokesperson mentioned it could not be applicable for him to handle the matter.
The speech will happen in the course of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, the ultimate cease of the King’s Caribbean tour.
Earlier within the journey, Charles spoke about previous struggling within the Bahamas and visited a web site in Guyana related to a slave revolt by which tons of of enslaved individuals had been killed.
The tour has additionally included engagements on environmental points, youth alternatives and commerce ties with the UK.
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