Burnham open to a formal British apology for slavery

The prime minister expressed his "sorrow and regret" for the suffering caused by the transatlantic slave trade and offered a "structured dialogue" with those affected. He said listening to calls for a formal apology on behalf of the British state is part of that process and that he is open to them.

"I do not think that British people today can be held liable for historical wrongs, however heinous, that happened in a different age under different laws and in which they played no personal part."

— Andy Burnham, prime minister

Burnham ruled out financial reparations and said he would instead seek a drive on debt servicing, to help countries repay over a longer period at better rates. Chancellor John Healey, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband and former prime minister Gordon Brown will join him at the summit.

What's next

The founder of The Repair Campaign called the statement "disappointing" and said it will not quell demand for an apology from 15 Caricom countries. The Commonwealth heads of government meeting in Antigua begins next week.