Andy Burnham's hints at a formal apology for the UK's role in the transatlantic slave trade could be tantamount to accepting liability and cost billions, according to critics, as he ruled out the £18trillion in reparations demanded by affected countries.
Speaking at a Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Antigua this week, the Prime Minister ruled out paying the £18trillion demanded by countries affected by the centuries-old trade, instead hinting at additional aid for development. Crucially, however, he has suggested opening discussions on a formal apology on behalf of the British state.
Criticism over accepting liability
Former attorney-general Sir Michael Ellis warned that apologising at an international conference would make it easier for those seeking to take the UK to an international tribunal such as the UN, as they did with Chagos.
The comments come amid criticism that Burnham is a man with very few definite ideas, preferring instead to float on the winds of public opinion. He has previously opened discussions on contentious subjects such as rejoining the EU, only to U-turn in the face of negative headlines and Labour back-bench fury.
Virtue signalling above all else
The mere suggestion of a formal apology is typical of a man and a party that put virtue signalling above any other concern, according to the commentary. It fits with the narrative that every element of British history before the advent of the Labour party and socialism is appalling, with nothing to be proud of.
Critics question why the supposed historical guilt is not turned on its head, asking why the UK does not receive royalties for bringing the Industrial Revolution to the world, encouraging globalisation that has lifted countries out of poverty, or for contributions to medicine, science, and the defence of democracy against Nazism and Communism.
Historical context and comparisons
The commentary notes that many Islamic countries were instrumental in maintaining a slave trade that included not only black Africans but white Europeans sold into the Ottoman Empire. West African kingdoms were also furious when the British policed the abolition of slavery, having made themselves rich off the backs of their fellow Africans.
It also points out that the famed Benin Bronzes were cast from Portuguese metals supplied in return for slaves, a fact not widely appreciated by those keen to see their artistic treasures returned.
King Charles has been praised for walking the fine line between acknowledging the great suffering of the past while making no formal apology or acceptance of reparations during his recent Caribbean visit. Burnham, however, cannot leave it alone, needing to present himself as a saviour of everyone, even people far beyond Britain's borders.
The commentary concludes that Burnham is a Prime Minister who promises everything but delivers very little, not least because his inability to get Britain growing again means he cannot afford to back his words with hard cash.
