King calls slave trade 'shameful chapter' in Commonwealth speech

During a Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (Chogm) in Antigua and Barbuda, King Charles III described the transatlantic slave trade as a 'shameful chapter' of history and a 'monstrous injustice.'

The King expressed personal sorrow, stating that the period 'fills my heart with horror and my soul with the most profound personal sorrow,' but did not offer a direct apology or reparations.

Buckingham Palace clarified that it is not the King's role to decide on reparations for the UK's historical involvement in the slave trade, noting his position is guided by the government's stance.

The King acknowledged the brutality of the trade and the role of the Royal Navy in ending it, but emphasized the importance of looking to the future and supporting the next generation of Commonwealth citizens.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham is also attending the summit and is expected to outline plans for a 'debt reset' to assist Commonwealth countries with rising debt costs, alongside allocating £40 million for Caribbean infrastructure improvements.

The summit, which includes discussions on climate change and global challenges, aims to foster collaboration among member nations to address shared issues and promote a prosperous future for the Commonwealth.