Shocking: Lammy slams money reparations as a cop-out!

In a recent visit to Lagos, Nigeria, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy addressed the topic of “slave reparations,” stating that a simple transfer of cash would be a naive approach to addressing the impacts of historical atrocities. Instead, Lammy emphasized the importance of building respectful partnerships and fostering long-term growth through better trade relations with African nations.

During his visit to Nigeria and South Africa, Lammy highlighted Britain’s shift towards a new approach in its relations with African countries. This approach focuses on listening, supporting long-term growth, and creating a freer, safer, and more prosperous continent through meaningful partnerships.

Key points discussed by Lammy and other participants at the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit in Samoa emphasized the need for a respectful and truthful dialogue on reparatory justice for the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting effects. Lammy, acknowledging his own ancestry as the descendant of enslaved people, stressed the importance of addressing the scars left by this horrific practice.

While rejecting the idea of cash payments or apologies for slavery, the British government under Prime Minister Keir Starmer has advocated for alternative forms of non-financial reparatory justice. Lammy suggested that developing nations could benefit more from British expertise in science and technology rather than cash transfers, especially in the face of economic challenges like the current cost-of-living crisis in the UK.

Reflecting on Britain’s historical role in the slave trade, Lammy pointed out that while the country was once the world’s largest slave trafficker, it took steps to abolish the slave trade in 1807 and slavery in the colonies in 1833. King Charles III, speaking at the Commonwealth summit, emphasized the importance of understanding history and finding the right language to guide future choices in a world where inequality persists.

In conclusion, the discussion surrounding reparations for the slave trade highlights the complexity of addressing historical injustices and building a more equitable future. By fostering respectful partnerships, promoting long-term growth, and acknowledging the lasting scars of the past, countries like Britain can work towards a more prosperous and inclusive global community.