UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy dismissed the notion that reparations for former colonial nations impacted by slavery should equate to direct financial compensation, emphasizing that the issue is far more complex than a simple transfer of cash.
In his first remarks following the endorsement of a reparations statement by 56 Commonwealth leaders, Lammy conveyed to the BBC that discussions on financial reparations were not the kind of debate that the public was seeking, suggesting a broader exploration of historical injustices.
During his inaugural trip to Africa as Foreign Secretary, Lammy stressed the importance of building cooperative relationships with African nations focused on the exchange of skills and scientific knowledge rather than financial reparations.
In Lagos, a Nigerian port city that played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade, Lammy described the historical period as “horrific and horrendous,” acknowledging the lasting “scars” it has left behind.
He expressed a personal connection to the topic, stating, “I am the descendant of enslaved people, so I recognise that,” underlining the personal significance of the reparations conversation.
Lammy mentioned that it was appropriate for the UK to have offered an apology and to commemorate the abolition of the slave trade during the last Labour government, recognizing the need for acknowledgment of historical wrongs.
While the British government has yet to issue a formal apology for its involvement in the slave trade, in 2007 then-Prime Minister Tony Blair did convey regret by stating, “Well actually I have said it: We are sorry. And I say it again now.”
The British monarchy, alongside the government and other European powers, had a fundamental role in perpetuating the centuries-long slave trade that began in the 1500s.
Lammy’s recent comments come in the aftermath of discussions surrounding reparations at a Commonwealth leaders’ summit held in Samoa in October, indicating ongoing discourse among member nations.
Following mounting calls from heads of Commonwealth governments to engage in reparations discussions, Downing Street maintained that the topic would not feature prominently on the agenda, signaling a reluctance to revisit the issue.
However, Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, later co-signed a document advocating for discussions on “reparatory justice” during the summit, although he clarified that financial compensation was not addressed in these conversations.
Lammy expressed a belief in the potential advantages for developing countries through the exchange of technical skills and scientific expertise from the UK, indicating a focus on sustainable partnerships rather than fiscal reparations.
At the beginning of his critical diplomatic visit, Lammy outlined plans for future engagements in Nigeria and South Africa, two of Africa’s largest economies, signaling a strategic shift in UK foreign policy toward the continent.
Emphasizing the need for “a new approach to Africa,” Lammy revealed intentions to initiate a five-month consultation period with African nations to foster collaborative relationships moving forward.
He noted that much had evolved since the last Labour government when the primary focus was predominantly on development, suggesting a new era of partnership is necessary.
In reference to previous UK’s engagement levels, he remarked, “What I’ve heard is that the UK has stepped back somewhat over the last few years,” reflecting on the importance of heightened interaction in the future.
As he shared his thoughts on broader issues affecting Africa, Lammy expressed serious concern regarding the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which he described as being of “tremendous concern” and vowed to prioritize it in upcoming discussions when the UK assumes the presidency of the United Nations Security Council in November.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, he stated, “The loss of life was unbelievable and outstrips other conflicts around the world,” presenting the conflict in Sudan as an urgent humanitarian crisis requiring comprehensive global attention.
Furthermore, Lammy remarked that it was a “huge concern that Sudan has not commanded the international attention that it requires,” citing its far-reaching implications for both Africa and the international community.
**Interview with David Lammy, UK Foreign Secretary**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, David. Following your recent trip to Africa and the Commonwealth leaders’ summit, you’ve made some significant remarks regarding reparations for the slave trade. Can you clarify your position on this issue?
**David Lammy:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. I want to emphasize that while the conversations surrounding reparations are important, the notion of direct financial compensation is overly simplistic. The history of slavery and its implications are incredibly complex and require a more nuanced approach.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned in your statements a need for a broader exploration of historical injustices. What do you propose as alternative paths forward instead of financial reparations?
**David Lammy:** During my visit, I focused on forging cooperative relationships with African nations centered around skill exchange and scientific knowledge. I believe that sustainable partnerships can empower these countries far more effectively than monetary compensation.
**Interviewer:** You also expressed a personal connection to this subject, recognizing your lineage as a descendant of enslaved people. How does that influence your perspective on addressing historical wrongs?
**David Lammy:** It deeply informs my approach. I understand the personal and communal scars that slavery has left behind. Acknowledging this history is vital, which is why I believe that the UK should continue to offer apologies and commemorate the abolition of the slave trade. Recognition and remembrance hold significant value.
**Interviewer:** There have been various calls from Commonwealth leaders for reparations discussions. How does the UK government plan to address their concerns without leaning toward financial reparations?
**David Lammy:** We’ve made it clear that while we acknowledge the demands, we won’t be prioritizing financial reparations on our agenda. Instead, as mentioned earlier, our focus will be on fostering partnerships that can deliver real benefits, such as technical skills and advancements in scientific cooperation, which could aid in the development of these nations.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, as the debate continues, how do you see the role of the Labour Party in advocating for discussions around reparatory justice without committing to financial compensation?
**David Lammy:** The Labour Party, under Sir Keir Starmer, recognizes the importance of reparatory justice. While financial compensation was not the focal point of our discussions at the summit, our ongoing dialogues signal a commitment to addressing historical injustices in a meaningful and constructive way. It’s about finding solutions that resonate with the needs of developing nations.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, David, for sharing your thoughts on such a critical issue. It’s clear the conversation around reparations is far from over.
**David Lammy:** Thank you for having me; it’s vital we keep these discussions alive.
