Queen Camilla joins King Charles on Caribbean tour as reparations row rages on after Burnham’s slave trade pledge
Queen Camilla joined King Charles in Antigua and Barbuda for a church service linked to the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The event called for unity, shared prosperity and a stronger voice for small states, as the royal tour faces sensitive discussions over Britain’s history of slavery and possible reparations.
Caribbean nations welcomed the UK’s offer of talks about a slavery apology, following Andy Burnham’s expression of sorrow and regret for the suffering caused by the slave trade. The service brought together Commonwealth representatives, local leaders and young flag-bearers representing its 56 member states; CHOGM is held every two years and this year’s theme is “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth”.
In short
- Camilla joined Charles in Antigua and Barbuda.
- Commonwealth leaders called for shared prosperity.
- Slavery apology talks are expected to feature at CHOGM.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of talks and a possible apology argue that Britain should acknowledge the lasting harm caused by slavery and take Caribbean nations’ requests seriously. They see open discussion as a matter of historical honesty and respect, and as a chance to build a more equal Commonwealth partnership.
The case against
Others may argue that present-day Britons should not be held liable for historical wrongs they did not commit, and that reparations could impose unfair or difficult-to-define obligations. They may favour expressing sorrow and strengthening practical cooperation today, while cautioning that apology talks should not imply agreement on compensation.
Explained simply
The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 countries, many of which have historical links to the British Empire. Its leaders meet every two years at CHOGM to discuss shared issues, including trade, investment and the concerns of smaller states.
Britain’s role in the transatlantic slave trade remains a subject of discussion between the UK and Caribbean nations. Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, has expressed sorrow and regret for the suffering it caused, and the UK has offered talks about an apology.
Some Caribbean governments are seeking a formal response to slavery’s lasting effects, including discussion of reparations. These debates form part of the wider context for the royal visit and the Commonwealth gathering.
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