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King's role is not policy making, says Palace in slavery apology row
BBC • • general
Key Points:
- Buckingham Palace emphasizes that the King's role as head of the Commonwealth is to inspire and convene rather than engage in policy-making, distancing him from debates over UK apologies or reparations for the Atlantic slave trade.
- The King is touring the Caribbean and will deliver a speech at the Commonwealth summit in Antigua and Barbuda, expected to acknowledge the legacy of slavery while reflecting the UK government's position.
- UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has expressed openness to a formal apology for slavery but ruled out financial reparations, stating any apology should be discussed with affected countries and communities.
- Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband supports dialogue on a formal apology to acknowledge history and promote healing, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticizes ongoing apology discussions as distractions from current UK issues.
- The Palace underscores the King's role as a unifying figure connecting Commonwealth leaders and institutions, with any formal apology or reparations decision resting solely with political leaders.
