Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

Cultural Objects (Protection from Seizure) Bill - Extension of Protection Period

10 September 2021 · 7 other contributors

Opened by Mel Stride Con Central Devon

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Mel Stride raised concerns about cultural objects (protection from seizure) bill - extension of protection period in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The amendment aims to extend the protection period for cultural objects on loan from abroad beyond the current twelve months.
  • The extension would be granted by the Secretary of State or relevant devolved authority in response to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Mel Stride argues that this measure will enhance the educational and economic value of UK exhibitions by securing international loans.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Mel Stride Con Central Devon

The amendment seeks to extend the period of protection for cultural objects on loan from abroad, currently set at twelve months under the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007. The extension would be granted by the Secretary of State or relevant devolved authority in response to unforeseen circumstances such as transportation delays caused by natural disasters or pandemic-related travel restrictions. Mel Stride argues that this measure will ensure international museums continue to lend significant cultural objects to UK exhibitions, enhancing their educational and economic value. He cites examples like the Terracotta Warriors loaned from China and the Tutankhamun exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery, which saw over 580,000 visitors. The extension is supported by the museums sector and Arts Council England.

Other contributors (7)
  • Alison McGovern Lab Birkenhead

    Ms McGovern supports the Bill, highlighting its importance in facilitating cultural exchanges between institutions globally. She argues that it is crucial for tourism, education, and mental health benefits derived from access to arts and culture. Furthermore, she emphasises the role of curators in diplomatic relations and seeks clarification on devolved institutions' involvement and coordination with other departments.

  • Mark Jenkinson

    Mr Jenkinson supports the Bill, citing his experience as a trustee at a local museum and noting its significance for international cultural exchanges. He acknowledges that while disruptions due to natural events are rare, they pose significant logistical challenges. The Bill aims to provide legal certainty by extending protection periods from 12 months to up to three additional months.

  • Angela Richardson

    Mrs Richardson supports the Bill, citing its importance in ensuring cultural objects can be safely loaned and exchanged internationally. She draws on her personal experience of travel disruption due to the Icelandic volcano eruption and highlights the need for measures that mitigate risks during unforeseen disruptions.

  • Mike Wood Con Kingswinford and South Staffordshire

    Museums play a crucial role in national life, heritage, education, understanding of identity and enjoyment. Smaller local museums like White House Cone Museum of Glass and Black Country Living Museum also contribute significantly. Temporary exhibitions benefit from borrowing culturally valuable items worldwide. Unexpected events such as pandemics or environmental disasters can disrupt international travel and delay exhibition returns. Extending the protection period by three months would secure access to global exhibits, enriching cultural life.

  • Robbie Moore Con Keighley and Ilkley

    Flexibility is key for museums with small exhibitions featuring globally significant objects. The Bill offers flexibility to extend protection periods up to three months in unforeseen circumstances, providing confidence to lenders of artefacts. Environmental factors such as volcanic eruptions can delay returns, making extended protection vital. This will boost the UK's exhibitions sector and ensure continued international lending.

  • James Davies

    The Bill aims to protect cultural objects on loan from abroad by extending the period of protection up to three months. This will reassure lenders, ensuring ongoing exchange of artefacts between the UK and international partners. The current 12-month limit can be disrupted by factors such as pandemics or environmental issues, posing a risk to timely returns. Extended protection periods offer greater certainty and boost confidence in lending cultural objects.

  • Caroline Dinenage Con Gosport

    The proposed measure is supported by the Government due to its forward-thinking nature, addressing real concerns in the cultural sector. It ensures that international cultural property remains protected while on loan, reducing risks and promoting planning for important exhibitions. The amendment will positively impact museums' relationships with international partners and contribute significantly to local economies through tourism.

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