Two-thirds of Britons oppose paying reparations for the slave trade, according to recent YouGov research. However, the same poll indicates that a majority of the public would support a formal apology for the historical atrocities.
The survey results highlight a division in public opinion, with resistance to financial compensation extending across various political affiliations. YouGov's findings, gathered on November 1 and 2, showed that 49% of Britons were strongly against reparations, with an additional 13% expressing some opposition.
In contrast, 52% of respondents backed the idea of a formal apology, with 25% strongly supporting it. This sentiment shows a notable difference when broken down by ethnicity, with 49% of white Britons in favor of an apology, a figure that rises to 71% among ethnic minorities. Support for reparations among white Britons stood at just 17%, compared to 43% among ethnic minorities.
The discussion around apologies and reparations has been intensified by recent comments from Andy Burnham, who suggested a 'structured dialogue' with affected nations. Critics argue that an apology could pave the way for demands for financial reparations. This stance contrasts with King Charles III's remarks at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), where he acknowledged the 'shameful chapter of history' without suggesting an apology, stating, "we cannot change the past."
Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has indicated that the UK government is open to an apology but will not shift its position on reparations. Miliband stated that the new approach would not cost UK taxpayers any additional money, emphasizing that the focus is on cooperative efforts rather than financial payouts. He suggested that this willingness to engage has been met with a sense of relief, indicating a shared interest in moving forward.
Burnham has also floated alternative forms of support, such as debt write-offs and downgrades, instead of direct cash payments. The UK government is reportedly prepared to fund health, education, and Net Zero projects in Commonwealth states, though these are currently proposed to come from existing aid budgets. The UK has committed £40 million over three years for critical infrastructure investment, including green energy in the Caribbean.
Calls for reparations have been growing, with regional leaders expressing readiness to engage in dialogue. The Ghanaian leader, John Dramani Mahama, has noted a "shift in some very strong positions" from the UK, viewing the current approach as a "first step" towards putting the issues of the transatlantic slave trade and colonialism behind them.