King Charles to speak on slavery at Commonwealth meeting in Antigua
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At the final stop of a Caribbean tour shaped by Britain’s colonial legacy, King Charles III will address Commonwealth leaders in Antigua about the enduring crimes and human cost of the transatlantic slave trade.
King Charles III is scheduled to deliver a speech to Commonwealth Heads of Government in Antigua on Tuesday, the concluding event of his nine-day Caribbean tour. The palace said the monarch will discuss the enduring damage of the transatlantic slave trade and acknowledge the suffering inflicted by that brutal system.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated he is "open" to the United Kingdom formally apologising for its role in slavery, a notable break from the evasiveness of previous government positions. The palace confirmed it was aware of Burnham’s comments before the speech was prepared and that no alterations have been made in response.
A palace spokesperson noted that the King will not comment on government policy, stating it would be "not appropriate" for him to address the UK government’s stance on the issue. The spokesperson added that the Commonwealth provides a platform for cooperation among its 56 member states, even as many continue to reckon with the consequences of empire.
The King’s itinerary has included visits to the Bahamas, where he referenced historical suffering, and Guyana, where he toured a former slave-rebellion site. Alongside discussions on slavery, his engagements have covered environmental matters, youth opportunities, and trade relations with the United Kingdom.
Queen Camilla accompanies the King in Antigua; the couple will attend a church service on Sunday before participating in the island’s Independence Day celebrations. The palace declined to comment on private family matters involving other members of the royal family.