UK government considers talks on slavery reparations but rules out cash payments

In early February 2025, the Foreign Office of the United Kingdom is contemplating discussions with Caribbean officials regarding reparations for Britain's involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. This potential meeting is scheduled for April and includes representatives from the Caribbean Community, known as Caricom, which consists of 15 nations advocating for reparations. The initiative has been primarily driven by Mia Mottley, the Prime Minister of Barbados, who has been vocal in urging former colonial powers to acknowledge their historical injustices and compensate affected nations. Although David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, had previously advocated for considering the demands of Caribbean countries, his stance shifted upon assuming office. He downplayed the likelihood of cash transfers, citing economic challenges and emphasizing a need for a forward-looking approach that fosters respectful partnerships and long-term growth. His comments align with the sentiments expressed by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who suggested that discussions about reparations should not focus on financial compensation but rather on future collaboration and development. Despite these administrative stances, there remains a significant demand among Caribbean leaders for reparatory justice. During a meeting of Commonwealth nations in Samoa in late 2023, a declaration was signed by the heads of 56 governments, including Sir Keir Starmer. The declaration recognized the issues stemming from the slave trade and called for constructive dialogue about reparatory justice. While Starmer stated the UK would not offer reparations, Downing Street has shown some openness to alternatives such as debt relief for impacted nations. Critics, including Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, have labeled the discussions around reparations as misguided. He has suggested that any efforts by Lammy would be detrimental to British interests, framing the conversation around reparations as a giveaway of taxpayer funds to foreign nations. Meanwhile, the Foreign Office has officially denied any plans for a ministerial level meeting with Caricom, indicating the government’s enduring position against compensatory reparations while still recognizing the importance of the conversation. Overall, the situation reflects a complex intersection of historical wrongdoings, current financial realities, and divergent views on how to address past injustices.