Downing Street: Elgin Marbles Belong with British Museum, not Government
A potential cultural partnership between the British Museum and the Greek government may lead to the return of the sculptures to Athens in exchange for different artwork.
The British Museum, not the government, has the final say on the possible return of the Elgin Marbles to Greece, as per Downing Street.
During a meeting between Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, various issues were discussed, excluding the controversial topic of the Elgin Marbles, as confirmed by a Downing Street spokesperson.
The government’s stance remains the same – there are no plans to change the law for a permanent relocation. The care and management of the sculptures are under the trustees of the British Museum, an entity independent of the government, according to the spokesperson.
Greece has been seeking the return of the Elgin Marbles for a long time, which were taken from Athens in the early 19th century by Lord Elgin, the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire at that time. The sculptures, once part of the Parthenon, are currently on display at the British Museum.
While Greece claims the sculptures were stolen, Lord Elgin argued that he had permission from Ottoman authorities to remove them, stating he was safeguarding them as the Parthenon deteriorated.
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Regarding the possibility of loaning the Marbles, the Downing Street spokesperson emphasized, “Those decisions are entirely up to the British Museum.”
The 1963 British Museum Act prohibits the removal of objects from its collection.
The museum is considering forming a cultural partnership with the Greek government, potentially leading to the return of the sculptures to Athens in exchange for showcasing iconic artworks.
Discussions about a “Parthenon Partnership” are reportedly ongoing and positive, as per the museum.
Broader UK–Greece Relations
Starmer’s stance on the matter remains the same since his previous meeting with Mitsotakis in November last year. Similar to his predecessor, former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Starmer advocates for upholding the British Museum Act.
However, he is open to a loan agreement if mutually agreed upon by the British Museum and the Greek government.
The recent meeting between the two leaders focused on common interests such as education, global security, and defense.
Greece, being a NATO ally and a major entry point for migrants into Europe, is facing challenges with irregular migration and asylum seekers.
The prime ministers agreed to enhance joint efforts to address illegal migration and reiterated their support for Ukraine, alongside the call for a Gaza ceasefire to stabilize the Middle East.
Mitsotakis highlighted the significance of the UK–Greece partnership during tumultuous times.
“We view the United Kingdom as essential in addressing the security challenges we are encountering, not only in Ukraine but also in southeastern Europe and the Middle East,” he stated.
Starmer stressed the need to “move on from Brexit” and establish a strong security agreement with the EU.
“The UK is undoubtedly stronger when collaborating closely with its key international partners, particularly in the face of war, conflict, and instability nearing Europe’s doorstep,” he explained.
During the meeting, Starmer also welcomed Greece’s forthcoming presidency at the U.N. Security Council in 2024 as an opportunity for further discussions on global security.
PA Media contributed to this report.
