Prince William reacts to Caribbean nations’ future ties with royals

Duke of Cambridge Prince William has signalled that any decision by Jamaica, Belize and The Bahamas to part ways with the British monarchy and become republics would be supported with ‘pride and respect’.

The future king’s remark comes after Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness told the Duke of Cambridge his country is ‘moving on’ and embracing its destiny as an independent country.

Later, he said the Caribbean nation´s switch to a republican model "inevitable".

Hours later, the prince expressed "sorrow" to Jamaicans for Britain´s involvement in slavery at a state dinner in the capital Kingston.

"I want to express my profound sorrow. Slavery was abhorrent, and it should never have happened," William said, calling the transatlantic slave trade an atrocity that "forever stains our history."

A Jamaican break from the monarchy would follow in the footsteps of fellow Caribbean island Barbados, which four months ago formally declared itself a republic at a November ceremony attended by William´s father, Prince Charles.

There are also reports that Belize is looking into becoming a republic.

Speaking at a reception, hosted by Sir Cornelius Smith, the Governor General of The Bahamas, Prince William said, “We support with pride and respect your decisions about your future. Relationships evolve. Friendship endures.”