David Lammy Believes Reparations Can Take Different Forms Beyond Financial Compensation
The foreign secretary seemed to backtrack from his previous endorsement of monetary reparations during a visit to Nigeria, but he left the door open for non-financial deals.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has stated that discussions about reparations for the slave trade should focus on the future rather than simply exchanging money.
Lammy made these remarks in Nigeria while signing a “strategic partnership” covering economic ties, national security, and climate issues, marking his first visit to Africa in his current role.
Prior to his appointment as foreign secretary, the Labour MP for Tottenham had expressed support for reparations on multiple occasions.
Following Commonwealth leaders signing a letter urging talks on reparations for African and Caribbean nations impacted by the trans-Atlantic slave trade, Lammy emphasized that the focus should not solely be on money, especially during a global cost-of-living crisis.
Cost-of-Living Crisis
“It’s not about the transfer of cash, particularly at a time of a cost-of-living crisis around much of the globe, and certainly in the UK,” he told the BBC.
He emphasized that the conversation should be about the future rather than dwelling on financial compensation.
Describing slavery as “horrific and horrendous in many, many ways,” Lammy acknowledged the scars left behind and the UK government’s apology for its role in the trade.
Lammy’s stance appeared to have evolved since his time in opposition, where he advocated for reparation discussions. He emphasized the need for a different dialogue focusing on economic improvement rather than direct financial compensation.
He continued to advocate for this approach when he joined the shadow cabinet under Sir Keir Starmer.
Lammy stressed the importance of truth, reconciliation, and addressing power dynamics to facilitate discussions on reparations.
‘A Fresh Approach’
The Foreign Office highlighted Lammy’s pursuit of a new approach that aims to foster respectful partnerships and long-term growth across Africa.
Lammy emphasized the importance of listening to African partners’ needs to cultivate mutually beneficial relationships between the UK and African nations.
His partnership with Nigeria will encompass economic ties, national security, and climate change, with discussions expected to extend to South Africa as well.
Lammy emphasized the government’s focus on growth to enhance opportunities for both British and African populations.
Lammy’s views align with those of the prime minister, who ruled out reparations in talks with other nations, opting for a forward-looking approach centered on learning from the past to build a better future.
The CHOGM summit in Samoa recognized the need for a meaningful dialogue on reparations towards forging a common future based on equity.
Claim UK Owes £18 Trillion
The Brattle Report suggested that the UK owed over £18 trillion in reparations for its role in slavery in Caribbean countries, sparking discussions on the topic in the UK.
While opinions on reparations vary, the government’s role in ending the slave trade and historical context are crucial aspects of the debate.
Starmer’s announcement of a UK-Caribbean forum in 2025 emphasizes a forward-looking approach focused on collaboration in key areas like climate, education, trade, and economic growth.
PA Media contributed to this report
