Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Parthenon Sculptures

Thursday 26 February 2026 · 2 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Andrew George asked the Minister about discussions with the Hellenic Republic regarding the future management of the Parthenon sculptures.
  • The Minister stated that the chair of the British Museum has been in discussions with the Greek Government about a partnership, including reciprocal loans.
  • Andrew George inquired if the proposed project would enhance the UK's reputation as it would demonstrate goodwill between two long-term international allies.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Andrew George Lib Dem St Ives
Foreign Affairs
Context

The MP inquired about discussions on the future management of the Parthenon sculptures, which are legally owned by the trustees of the British Museum.

Question

What discussions have you had with your counterpart in the Hellenic Republic regarding the future management of the Parthenon sculptures?

Answer from Ian Murray

I have not personally had any discussions with my counterpart in the Hellenic Republic on the future of the management of the sculptures. The chair of the British Museum has been in discussions with the Greek Government about a partnership, including reciprocal loans.

Answered
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Q2 Andrew George Lib Dem St Ives
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

The MP, chair of the British Association for the Reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures, asked about facilitating an exhibition of these sculptures in the Acropolis Museum in Athens.

Question

Does the Minister agree that should such a project be agreed by the museum, it would enhance the reputation of the United Kingdom as it would be seen as a gracious act between two nations that are long-term international allies?

Answer from Ian Murray

It is clear that the UK and Greece do indeed have a strong bilateral relationship built on our shared history and values. We greatly value the friendship that exists between our people and our Governments. The British Museum is operationally independent from Government, but if they reach an agreement with the Greek Government on loaning the sculptures, the Government would not stand in the way of such a loan.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific commitment to facilitate the exhibition or enhance reputation

How: Operationally Independent From Government

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