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The Commonwealth summit - explained published at 12:19 GMT Image source, Getty Images Image caption, King Charles, who is in Antigua for the meeting, is the current head of the Commonwealth The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting brings together leaders and representatives from the 56 Commonwealth countries once every two years. Organisers say the meeting provides a forum for these nations to "reach consensus on issues of shared importance" and shape the future of the Commonwealth. The meeting is being held in Antigua and Barbuda, as hosting duties rotate between the nations.
Former PM Sir Keir Starmer attended the previous meeting in Samoa - alongside the King - in 2024. King to open Commonwealth summit as PM begins slavery apology talks published at 12:10 GMT Katie Williams Live reporter Image source, Reuters King Charles III will formally open the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua this afternoon. He will speak with "unflinching honesty" and "sincere sorrow" on the lasting pain the transatlantic slave trade has caused, Buckingham Palace says.
PM Andy Burnham will also be in attendance at the summit. He will begin talks about the UK issuing a formal apology for the slave trade in the next year. He has ruled out offering reparations for slavery, but Downing Street says he will set out plans for a "debt reset" to support Commonwealth countries dealing with the growing cost of interest repayments.
Political opponents have criticised Burnham, saying talks about a slavery apology have put the King under pressure - something the PM has denied. We'll bring you the latest updates and analysis from throughout the day - stay with us.
Source: BBC
