King says slave trade 'fills my heart with horror' but stops short of apology
The King has reminded the world of Britain’s role in ending the transatlantic slave trade, saying “evil need not have the last word”.
TL;DR
- King Charles acknowledged the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade, calling it a "shameful chapter" that fills him with "horror" and "sorrow."
- He highlighted Britain's role, particularly the Royal Navy, in ending the slave trade, stating that "evil need not have the last word."
- The King stated that history "is not ours to choose or to change" but offers lessons, and while past actions cannot be altered, humanity can learn from them.
- He avoided a personal apology for Britain's and the monarchy's historical role in slavery, suggesting there are positive aspects of history that "inspire us."
- Charles emphasized the Commonwealth's role in addressing contemporary challenges and working in "modern partnership to address the wrongs of the past with action for the future."
- The King's tour of the Caribbean has been marked by calls for apologies and reparations for slavery.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed openness to an apology and offered £40 million to Caribbean projects for green energy schemes.