King's role is not policy making, says Palace in slavery apology row

As Commonwealth leaders meet in Antigua and Barbuda, Buckingham Palace says the King’s role is to “inspire and convene”, not to make policy. Charles III is due to deliver a speech on Tuesday that is expected to acknowledge slavery’s painful legacy, but it must reflect the UK government’s position. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has suggested some form of apology while ruling out financial reparations; Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne wants reparations discussed. Any formal apology or reparations action is a decision for political leaders, as the King speaks on ministers’ advice.