Keir Starmer poised to return Parthenon sculpture, reports Express

07:31 30/7/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Keir Starmer is reportedly preparing to return the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece, a gesture aimed at strengthening ties with the European Union, according to an article in the British newspaper Express.

The Express reports that the UK government has eased its official position against lending the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece.

Sir Keir Starmer, 61, has taken a more conciliatory stance on the issue compared to his predecessor, Rishi Sunak, as part of efforts to reconnect with EU partners and restore the UK's continental relationships.

In a written response to the House of Commons last Friday, newly appointed Culture Secretary Chris Bryant indicated a shift in the UK’s approach to the controversial topic, postponing the decision on whether the Parthenon Marbles will remain solely in the British Museum. Addressing a Liberal Democrat MP, Bryant commended British Museum Chairman George Osborne for pursuing "constructive cooperation" with Greece.

"Decisions about the care and management of the British Museum’s collections, including the lending of items, are made by the museum's trustees under the British Museum Act of 1963. The museum operates independently of the government.

We are aware that Chairman George Osborne has engaged in discussions with Greek officials on this matter, seeking a productive partnership. We value the British Museum’s efforts in international lending and applaud the successful collaborations between the British Museum, the V&A Museum, and Ghana’s Manhyia Palace Museum," Mr. Bryant stated.

Despite this, the Culture Secretary reiterated that "the Parthenon Sculptures were legally acquired and remain the lawful property of the British Museum."

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