The UK has agreed to take part in “structured, time-bound, inclusive and good-faith” talks with affected parties about the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Africans and its historical harms, Commonwealth leaders said in a statement at the end of their meeting in Antigua.
The commitment appears in the meeting’s communique, which records agreements reached by Commonwealth leaders. Officials said the timetable for the talks would be set later. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has suggested the process could last around a year.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has opened the door to a formal UK apology for its role in the slave trade, while ruling out reparations. Asked whether an apology might be made by the time the UK hosts the G20 summit in Manchester next November, Miliband told BBC Newscast: “Broadly speaking, yes.”
British diplomats say the talks are intended to build trust and reassurance while having an endpoint. The timing is expected to be determined through the dialogue with countries that have called for the suffering and enduring effects of the slave trade to be addressed.
Burnham said his new approach to the Commonwealth had been well received. King Charles III, speaking as Head of the Commonwealth, said the transatlantic slave trade continued to cast a shadow over member countries and described the history as a source of profound sorrow.
Sources: BBC News UK.