Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized on Monday that reparations for the U.K.’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade should not focus on “cash transfers.” Lammy, who is of Guyanese descent with enslaved ancestors, expressed that while the horrors and lasting impact of slavery are undeniable, the focus should shift towards future-oriented partnerships.
Calls for reparation discussions have grown among former British colonies, especially at the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, where leaders advocated for a “meaningful, respectful, and truthful” dialogue on reparative justice.
Lammy, in an interview during his visit to Nigeria, noted that many people prefer forward-looking solutions rather than prolonged debates over reparations, particularly given the global cost-of-living challenges.
Instead, Britain aims to build “respectful partnerships” with African nations, fostering long-term economic growth and mutual respect, Lammy added. Despite other nations, like the Netherlands, issuing formal apologies, the U.K. has yet to do so, even though much of its historical wealth was built on slavery.
At the Commonwealth summit, King Charles III acknowledged the calls for reparations but highlighted that, while the past cannot be changed, leaders should focus on using historical understanding to make choices that address present inequalities
