British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declined to include the issue of reparations for the transatlantic slave trade on the agenda at this week’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa. In response to growing calls, a spokesperson for Starmer confirmed that the UK will not be offering financial compensation or an apology.
“We do not pay reparations,” the spokesperson said, adding “The position on an apology remains the same. We won’t be offering an apology at CHOGM.”
The statement also noted that London would “continue to engage with partners on these issues.”
Both Starmer and King Charles are attending the summit, which brings together 56 Commonwealth nations.
The issue of reparations has gained increasing attention in recent years, with several former British colonies urging for compensation for the atrocities of the slave trade. However, London’s stance remains unchanged, calling for reconciliation through other means.
The CHOGM summit, which began on Monday, will focus on broader issues such as climate change, trade, and the future of the Commonwealth.
According to research conducted by economic consulting firm Brattle Group Report and published by the University of the West Indies in 2023, the UK alone would be on the hook for a sum of $24 trillion as reparations for transatlantic slavery in 14 countries. Of that sum, about $9.6 trillion would be due to Jamaica.
Meanwhile, sources told Reuters that the Caribbean Community (Caricom), which comprises 15 member states, are poised to raise the issue of reparations at the Commonwealth meeting.
In July, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley unveiled a decision by Caricom to “very forcefully” speak on reparations during CHOGM in Samoa.
UN judge Patrick Robinson said in August 2023 that the UK will no longer be able to ignore the growing calls for reparation for transatlantic slavery, stressing that compensation “is required by history and it is required by law.”