A new approach to the Commonwealth
Andy Burnham will ask countries affected by Britain’s role in slavery to help shape a formal apology during the Commonwealth heads of government summit in Antigua and Barbuda. The prime minister intends to launch a "structured dialogue" into what form an apology might take during the event, which begins Tuesday. Downing Street claims the input of these nations is indispensable to crafting an enduring message. I find the decision to seek input from affected nations a sensible way to handle this sensitive historical issue. The prime minister told the Guardian on Saturday that the UK should "show leadership again today." He believes the Commonwealth can be a powerful force for good as it brings together a third of the global population. He also said Britain is bringing a new approach to this meeting to reshape a new era for the Commonwealth. The spokesperson said that having conversations about an apology is the right thing to do. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband is already at the summit. Officials at the summit say other Commonwealth countries responded positively to the offer of dialogue. This move could help discussions on separate issues like trade and the climate.
Debt restructuring and diplomatic relations
Downing Street ruled out paying reparations following any apology, but Burnham plans to propose a system of debt restructuring for countries facing higher debt costs. Tony Blair expressed "deep sorrow" about the slave trade and Britain’s role in 2006, but he stopped short of a formal apology. The prime minister’s official spokesperson says his intention to go further remains distinct from the sorrow expressed by his predecessors. The spokesperson said the prime minister wants to strengthen the Commonwealth as a family of nations with shared values that can support growth around the world through trade and economic collaboration. An apology of this significance should be informed by the people and countries most affected, according to the spokesperson. By not shying away from difficult discussions about the past, the UK seeks to build trust with its allies to focus on the big issues of the future, according to a Foreign Office official at the summit. King Charles is currently in Antigua and Barbuda for a pre-summit visit. No 10 denied that Burnham’s comments potentially embarrassed the King. The spokesperson added that Buckingham Palace was made aware of the plans in a timely manner. The Foreign Office will lead the talks on the apology throughout the next couple of days.
