**UK Faces Pressure Over Historical Slave Trade Reparations Ahead of Commonwealth Summit**

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has ruled out paying reparations for the UK's historical role in the transatlantic slave trade, stating that the country "can't change our history." His remarks come as Commonwealth heads of government prepare to discuss the issue during a summit in Samoa, with some leaders advocating for substantial financial reparations.

While Starmer emphasized the need to address "today's challenges" such as climate change resilience and trade among Commonwealth nations, he acknowledged the importance of discussing the UK's past involvement in the slave trade, which he described as "abhorrent." Chancellor Rachel Reeves backed this stance earlier, stating that the current government will not be making any reparatory payments.

Despite the UK government's position, Commonwealth leaders are expected to engage in discussions concerning reparations, defying Downing Street's stance that the issue is not on the summit's agenda. At its peak, Britain was the largest slave-trading nation globally, making the reparations debate especially poignant for many involved.

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, taking place on Friday and Saturday, brings together leaders from 56 countries. The conversation around reparatory justice spans various forms, including financial payments, debt relief, official apologies, educational programs, and public health assistance.

Calls for the UK to apologise and pay reparations have intensified in the lead-up to the summit. King Charles, set to formally open the meeting, is expected to honour his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, and emphasize the Commonwealth's ability to address challenging issues with "openness and respect."

All candidates for the new Commonwealth secretary general – Shirley Botchwey of Ghana, Joshua Setipa of Lesotho, and Mamadou Tangara of Gambia – support reparatory justice, indicating strong backing for the matter within the organization.

Bahamas' Foreign Minister Frederick Mitchell expressed optimism that the UK would eventually change its stance on the issue, urging the government to offer a simple and direct apology. In response, Starmer noted that an apology had previously been made by then-Prime Minister Tony Blair in 2007.

In a separate matter, Starmer addressed a complaint from Donald Trump's team against the Labour Party over its staff and activists volunteering for Kamala Harris's presidential campaign. Starmer downplayed the issue, noting it was common practice for political party members to campaign internationally in their free time.

Regarding domestic issues, Starmer reiterated his commitment to economic growth and expressed confidence in Labour's direction. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to outline the government's tax and spending plans in the upcoming Budget, aiming to address economic stagnation and alter debt rules for increased infrastructure spending.

As budget discussions loom, the Conservative Party has challenged Labour's economic strategies, particularly questioning the impact of potential additional borrowing on interest rates and the financial burden on families across the country.