The Chair of the British Museum and former UK Prime Minister, George Osborne, discussed ongoing negotiations with Greece over the Parthenon Sculptures, indicating progress but acknowledging that a final agreement remains elusive. Speaking on the weekly podcast Political Currency, which he co-hosts with Ed Balls, Osborne shared insights into the discussions.
He stated that the museum is exploring arrangements under which some of the Parthenon Sculptures could eventually be displayed in Athens, their original location. In exchange, Greece would lend some of its archaeological treasures to the British Museum.
Osborne emphasized that significant progress had been made in the negotiations but noted that there was still a “distance” to cover before any agreement could be reached. He joked that if the negotiations were nearing a conclusion, he would be in London rather than in New York, where he was at the time.
Osborne highlighted the legal challenges, recalling that returning the sculptures permanently would require a change to the British Museum Act of 1963, which prohibits the permanent removal of its exhibits. He clarified that even if the museum wanted to send the sculptures back permanently, which it does not, such a move would not be possible under current law.
He pointed out the museum’s ability to lend objects, expressing surprise that loans to Greece were not more frequent, given the shared history and cultural ties between the two nations.
Osborne also noted a shift in the stance of the current UK government on the issue. He mentioned that Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated the matter is one for the British Museum’s management to decide, independently of government influence. This, he remarked, contrasts with former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who declined to meet with the Greek Prime Minister over the issue. Osborne described Starmer’s approach as a more logical and diplomatic way to move forward.
Also read: Deal on Parthenon sculptures is “close”
Source: ANA-MPA
