A historian has warned that King Charles’ forthcoming royal tour entails a significant “risk.” The news comes amid reports of renewed tensions between the Sussexes and the royal family. The timing follows closely on the heels of the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq, concluding his state visit to the UK from October 19 to 22.
Historian claims King Charles’ upcoming tour of the Caribbean is ‘outside his control’
A historian has suggested that King Charles‘ impending Caribbean tour is “outside his control.”
The monarch is reportedly heading into what could be the most challenging chapter of his reign. Renewed calls for slavery reparations and an official apology will apparently dominate the visit.
The BBC has reported that pressure is building on the King to issue a formal apology for Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. He has in the past denounced it as an “indelible stain” on history.
In comments to the broadcaster, respected historian Sir Anthony Seldon made clear what is on the line. He said, “This is the biggest risk of his reign so far, with so much just outside of his control. Questions about slavery, reparations and apologies mean the moral integrity of the monarchy is being questioned.”
Furthermore, Guyana’s President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, has insisted that both an apology and financial compensation are necessary. Echoing that view, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey added that the “time has come” for a candid debate on reparations, noting an official apology “wouldn’t hurt at all.”
According to the Daily Express, His Majesty will depart on the RAF Voyager on Tuesday for a demanding nine-day itinerary across the Bahamas, Guyana, and Antigua and Barbuda. He will reportedly inaugurate the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) on November 3. Queen Camilla and Prime Minister Andy Burnham will join him for the opening.
A senior aide at the palace noted that King Charles will “not shy away from the darkest days of our past.” That said, constitutional protocol prevents him from offering a formal apology. They added that financial reparations lie entirely with Burnham’s government, which has flatly ruled out any payment.
