Antigua and Barbuda PM says Burnham should offer reparations

Antigua and Barbuda’s prime minister, Gaston Browne, has urged Andy Burnham to support reparations for the UK’s role in the transatlantic slave trade, arguing that an apology alone is insufficient. His comments come as King Charles visits the Caribbean and slavery’s legacy is expected to feature at a Commonwealth summit.

Burnham has offered structured dialogue and expressed sorrow and regret, while ruling out financial reparations. Browne said compensation was still needed and suggested funding could come from Britain’s overseas development budget; Caribbean leaders say reparations must remain part of any dialogue. He also said he personally favours Antigua and Barbuda becoming a republic, with the decision resting with its people.