A palace spokesman revealed: “His Majesty told the Commonwealth heads of government reception in Rwanda last year, ‘I cannot describe the depths of my personal sorrow at the suffering of so many, as I continue to deepen my own understanding of slavery’s enduring impact‘.
“That process has continued with vigor and determination since His Majesty’s accession.
“Historic Royal Palaces is a partner in an independent research project, which began in October last year, that is exploring, among other issues, the links between the British monarchy and the transatlantic slave trade during the late 17th and 18th centuries.”
The palace spokesman added: “As part of that drive, the royal household is supporting this research through access to the royal collection and the royal archives.”