UK’s King Charles III decries ‘monstrous injustice’ of slave trade

King Charles III opened the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda by describing the transatlantic slave trade as a “monstrous injustice” whose legacy still affects member states. He said the history filled him with horror and personal sorrow, but did not apologise for Britain’s role or address calls for reparations.

The summit brings together leaders from 56 Commonwealth countries, and debate about apologies and financial reparations had featured in the run-up. Charles urged learning from the past and looking ahead to practical partnerships; UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has raised debt resets for smaller states and announced €48.2 million for Caribbean infrastructure over three years. Britain transported more than 3.2 million Africans across the Atlantic during its involvement in the trade.