Burnham to seek Commonwealth input on UK slavery apology

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA — Prime Minister Keir Starmer's envoy Andy Burnham arrived in Antigua and Barbuda on Monday to lead a landmark structured dialogue with Commonwealth countries on a formal apology for Britain's role in the transatlantic slave trade. The initiative marks a new approach in UK-Commonwealth relations, with Downing Street emphasizing consultation over unilateral decision-making.

Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, is using the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting to launch discussions on what form an apology might take. Downing Street has ruled out paying reparations following an apology but indicated Burnham would set out plans for a debt restructuring system to help countries facing higher debt costs.

"In today's more divided, unpredictable world, the Commonwealth has the potential to be a powerful force for good, bringing together a third of the global population, and I believe it is key that the UK plays its full role in that," Burnham said.

"Britain is bringing a new approach to this meeting as we look to reshape a new era for the Commonwealth, as well as being open to discussions about the past."

The initiative follows former Prime Minister Tony Blair's expression of "deep sorrow" about the slave trade in 2006, which stopped short of a formal apology. Burnham intends to go further through proper consultation with affected countries.

"An apology of this significance should be informed by the people and countries most affected, rather than simply deciding unilaterally what form it should take," his spokesperson said.

Other Commonwealth countries have responded positively to the UK's offer of dialogue, officials said. The Foreign Office will lead the talks, which will run alongside discussions on climate and trade — issues where the Commonwealth alliance can cooperate, Burnham said.

Downing Street denied that Burnham's remarks had embarrassed King Charles, who is in the region for a pre-Chogm visit. Buckingham Palace was made aware in a timely manner, Burnham's spokesperson said.

The prime minister believes that being true to British values of decency and honesty means not shying away from these conversations, his spokesperson added.