Britain should not apologise for slave trade, says Tory minister
The Guardian reported that Kemi Badenoch, a senior Tory minister, said Britain should not issue an apology for its role in the transatlantic slave trade.
The Guardian reported that Kemi Badenoch, a senior Tory minister, said Britain should not issue an apology for its role in the transatlantic slave trade. She described such an apology as a “navel-gazing distraction” and warned it could be used as a lever for financial compensation. Badenoch added that slavery was an evil “in which people from every continent and region participated”. Speaking to broadcasters on Sunday, she also questioned whether future leaders should attend the Commonwealth summit, noting that the meeting is now dominated by calls for reparations.
The comments come as pressure builds on the UK to address its colonial legacy and consider formal apologies or reparations.
Why it matters
Her remarks shape the debate over a British apology and potential reparations, influencing diplomatic discussions at the Commonwealth summit.
Key details
- Location
- United Kingdom · Europe
- Reported by
- The Guardian
- First reported
- Key names
- Kemi Badenoch, Britain, Speaking, Commonwealth
- Section
- World
Sources
This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:
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