Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Exchange of Cultural Artefacts: Greece

Thursday 18 June 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 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Andrew George inquired about recent discussions with Greece on mutual exchanges of cultural artefacts.
  • The Culture, Media and Sport Minister stated there have been no recent discussions on this matter with Greek counterparts.
  • The chair of the British Museum has had talks with Greek Ministers regarding the Parthenon sculptures.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Andrew George Lib Dem St Ives
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

The question arises from discussions on the exchange of cultural artefacts between England and Greece, particularly regarding the Parthenon sculptures.

Question

What recent discussions have there been with the Greek counterpart on mutual exchanges of cultural artefacts?

Answer from Ian Murray

There have been no recent discussions between Culture, Media and Sport Ministers and counterparts in the Hellenic Republic on mutual exchanges of cultural artefacts. The Parthenon sculptures are legally owned by the trustees of the British Museum. The chair of the museum has had discussions with the Greek Government about a partnership, including reciprocal loans.

Partly answered

Not addressed: No recent discussions have taken place between Ministers and their counterparts in Greece on mutual exchanges of cultural artefacts.

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

The opportunity for the restoration of the British Museum and its partnership with Greece regarding the Parthenon sculptures is being discussed. The questioner suggests this as a time to reflect on natural justice.

Question

There is an opportunity for another victory for the United Kingdom if we can find a way of co-operating. Does the Minister agree that engaging in what would be a better look for this country—a gracious act, reflecting a partnership and a shared love of classical history, but also natural justice—and to see all the sculptures displayed in Athens, where they belong?

Answer from Ian Murray

The chair of the trustees of the British Museum has had talks with Greek Ministers on this issue to seek a constructive partnership. We support those talks, but it is for the British Museum trustees to reach an agreement with the Greek Government.

Partly answered

Not addressed: No commitment was given regarding whether the Government supports displaying all Parthenon sculptures in Athens.

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