Not a plea for money

THE backlash came quickly after Jamaica filed its reparations petition, with critics questioning the decision to approach the King and some framing the move as Jamaica going cap in hand to Britain for money.

But Culture Minister Olivia Grange is drawing a sharp distinction between seeking payment and seeking a legal ruling, saying the petition contains no monetary claim and instead asks the Privy Council to determine three fundamental questions arising from the enslavement of Africans in Jamaica.

And with King Charles III having referred those questions to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, Grange announced that the matter has now moved into a new phase, with Attorney General Dr Derrick McKoy set to lead Jamaica’s case as the country awaits directions from the court on the next steps.