The UK Rishi Sunak said the Parthenon Marbles will remain in the UK. Overall, the attitude of the UK is based on the fact that the sculptures are of great importance to this country. The government called them their “greatest asset” and treasure. These marbles are Elgin Marbles. They are important Greek sculptures, which were no longer part of it after the era of Ottoman rule came. Now, the British Museum is their permanent home.
“The Elgin Marbles are the country’s great asset” – The UK PM
Sunak said Britain and the British Museum have been taking care of these sculptures for generations. This museum, as well as some other museums and galleries, are a great state treasure. Among other things, this reflects the fact that they are financed through taxes. The law protects the museum that will remain as it is – unchangeable.
“We share their treasures with the world, and the world comes to the UK to see them. The collection of The British Museum protects the law, and we have no plans to change it”, he said. In this way, he preserves the legacy of his predecessors, Liz Truss and Boris Johnson. Everyone believes it is important to protect national wealth.
Regardless of the negotiations the UK and Greece conducted regarding the return of the sculptures, two countries did not come to an agreement. Through the government, the British Museum keeps track of the Elgin Marbles condition. Overall, sculptures have been part of the museum since the end of the 19th century. At that time, British diplomat Lord Elgin stripped them of the Parthenon.
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Unsuccessful Negotiation Between the UK and Greece
He also says that the relocation of facilities must not become a permanent practice. The British government has no intention of repealing the British Museum Act. This act prohibits the museum from permanently returning any of the items in its collection, unless under very specific conditions.
