Buckingham Palace has responded to Andy Burnham's comments that he is "open" to calls for Britain to make a formal apology for its role in the slave trade. The response comes as the King continues his nine-day tour of the Caribbean, where ministers advised Charles not to offer an apology or reparations, in keeping with established policy.
However, the Prime Minister now appears to have changed tack.
Palace statement on the King's approach
A spokesperson for the King said: "As we have indicated, the King will not shy away from confronting the most shameful aspects of the past during this Visit. You may therefore expect him to address them in his speech with unflinching honesty, sincere sorrow, and respect for the wider discussions that will be taking place between relevant governments on this issue at CHOGM and beyond."
"He will be speaking at CHOGM in his capacity as Head of the Commonwealth. It would not be appropriate for him to address matters of particular policy relating to the UK Government's position."
"In keeping with the CHOGM agenda of 'Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth' His Majesty's speech will therefore primarily focus on encouraging practical solutions and united efforts to address global challenges and opportunities relevant to all 56 members of the Commonwealth family today."
King's arrival in Antigua and Barbuda
King Charles landed in Antigua and Barbuda on Friday evening, the final leg of his nine-day Caribbean tour. He has reunited with the Queen, who landed on Thursday, and the pair will undertake engagements in the country over the next three days.
It is understood that no changes will be made to the King's opening address at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) on Tuesday following Mr Burnham's comments. It is not clear whether the King will issue an apology in his speech at CHOGM.
Renewed calls for apology during tour
During the King's tour of the Bahamas and Guyana, there have been renewed calls for an apology and reparations, with small protests in each country.
In the Bahamas, the King made reference to the "great suffering of the past". Charles said the country's culture was "born out of darkness", and it was "only right" to acknowledge historic injustices. Later, in Guyana, he visited the site where slaves were executed after a failed rebellion against British authorities.
Charles will preside over the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in his role as the head of the "family of nations" after travelling from a state visit to Guyana. The King will give the opening address to assembled presidents, prime ministers and other national representatives of the 56 member states on Tuesday.
Prime Minister's position
Mr Burnham wrote in the Guardian: "We are offering a structured dialogue with those affected by the transatlantic slave trade. Listening to calls for a formal apology on behalf of the British state will form an important part of this process and I am open to them."
The Prime Minister expressed his "sorrow and regret for the pain and suffering of so many millions" but ruled out considering financial reparations.
