The party’s home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, argued that nations seeking compensation are disregarding what he described as Britain’s “huge sacrifices” in abolishing slavery.
“A growing number of countries are demanding reparations from Britain,” Yusuf said. “They ignore the fact that Britain made enormous sacrifices to be the first major power to outlaw slavery and enforce this prohibition.”
He added that, over the past two decades, the UK had issued 3.8 million visas to nationals of these countries under both Tory and Labour governments, alongside £6.6 billion in foreign aid. “Enough is enough,” Yusuf declared.
Countries specifically mentioned by Reform UK include Nigeria, Jamaica, Kenya, Haiti, Guyana, Barbados, and The Bahamas. The party stated it would immediately halt visa issuance to nationals of any country that formally pursues reparations claims.
The proposal arrives as international momentum for reparations grows. The United Nations has endorsed discussions on the matter, describing the forced displacement of Africans as the “gravest crime against humanity.” The African Union has also called for formal apologies, restitution, and financial compensation from former colonial powers, including the UK.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage dismissed the push for reparations, criticising the UN and rejecting the principle of payments for historical injustices.
Meanwhile, the British government has reiterated its longstanding position. A Foreign Office spokesperson said the UK recognises the “abhorrence” of slavery but will not provide financial reparations. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has similarly ruled out both an apology and compensation, emphasising a focus on future relations rather than revisiting the past.
As part of its broader election platform, Reform UK also pledged to cut foreign aid spending to £1 billion, representing a 90 per cent reduction.