A UK Government minister has ruled out reparations for Bermuda over the atrocities of slavery.

Uma Kumaran, British Minister of State, rejected the idea after it was put to her by The Royal Gazette in the wake of her participation in signing the historic Hamilton II Declaration this week at Government House.

She visited the island, along with a number of other countries’ representatives, to put pen to paper on the joint initiative to boost international support for the protection of the Sargasso Sea.

Ms Kumaran, UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Overseas Territories, said: “We are really clear on that, our position or the UK Government’s position is that it doesn't pay reparations.

“But we are acutely aware of the very painful history and we acknowledge that.

“You will appreciate that the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting is coming up soon, so these are ongoing discussions on how we continue to play our part in acknowledging the past and also moving forward.

“We are really clear that we see the Caribbean and Overseas Territories as our partners and we want to strengthen our collaboration and look to the future, and help with a range of issues from climate to domestic security and reducing violence towards women and girls and educate the next generation.”

Ms Kumaran also spoke about meeting with the Bermuda Police Service and the Royal Bermuda Regiment to discuss security following the UK’s funding of £1.7 million (about $2.27 million) over the past 12 months for additional policing to help investigate rising crimes of violence.

She said: “I had really frank discussions when I met with the head of the BPS and the RBR and we spoke quite candidly about the security element and the need for more policing.

“The Government of Bermuda have been very clear that they will do their part in funding.

“What they are looking for from the UK is a bit more technical assistance and expertise and more collaboration ― which we are doing.

“There is commitment from us and in particular to do with our programme for women in policing, which is something we are really proud to have supported.

“I have said that I have heard their calls loud and clear and will take it away with me and hopefully come to a conclusion on this which works for the Bermudian people and also the UK.”