Elgin Marbles 'matter for British Museum', No 10 says - as Starmer and Greek PM meet

Downing Street has stated that the decision regarding the Elgin Marbles rests with the British Museum. This announcement came during a meeting between Sir Keir Starmer and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

However, the historic Parthenon sculptures were not discussed at all during the meeting.

According to a report by The Times, the meeting between the two leaders was scheduled because there had been advancements in discussions regarding a possible agreement that might allow the sculptures to be brought back to Greece.

However, officials at Downing Street emphasized that the topic of the marbles was not part of the agenda for Sir Keir's meeting.

The statement indicated that the government has "no intention to alter the law that would allow for a permanent relocation. Decisions concerning the care, management, and sculptures are the responsibility of the British Museum's trustees, who operate independently from the government."

When questioned about the possibility of lending the Elgin Marbles to Athens, the spokesperson replied: "Those choices are solely up to the British Museum."

The museum reports that talks regarding a cultural "Parthenon Partnership" are "progressing positively and are productive."

The collaboration is expected to play a central role in an arrangement between the museum and the Greek government, potentially allowing for the return of the sculptures to Athens in return for hosting exhibitions of renowned artworks.

A representative from the British Museum stated, "We think that establishing a lasting partnership would effectively balance showcasing our finest artifacts to global audiences while preserving the integrity of the remarkable collection we have at the museum."

Tuesday marked the Greek leader's first trip to the UK since a diplomatic dispute arose with the former administration.

Discover more: What are the Elgin Marbles and what is their story behind arriving in Britain?

At that time, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called off a meeting with Mr. Mitsotakis, who had been advocating for the return of the sculptures.

Mr. Sunak rejected the claim that he had a dramatic outburst regarding the issue and accused his counterpart of seeking attention.

Mr. Mitsotakis likened separating the Elgin Marbles from the pieces that remain in Athens to slicing the Mona Lisa down the middle.

Greece has consistently argued that the Elgin Marbles were taken unlawfully from their original location on the Acropolis in Athens during a time of foreign rule.

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The marble sculptures originated from the friezes of the ancient Parthenon temple, which is around 2,500 years old, and have been showcased at the British Museum for over two centuries.

Lord Elgin took them away in the early 1800s while serving as the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire.

Actor Stephen Fry stated in an interview with Sky News that the marbles "should be returned to Athens." He believes that such a decision would benefit both nations.

He told Kay Burley that the sense of pride will grow on both sides.

Clearly, for the Greeks, bringing together these incredibly sacred artifacts is important, and for Britain, it will boost our standing.

"We'll be recognized for doing something quite elegant."

However, shadow culture minister Saqib Bhatti stated: "The marbles are safeguarded by a parliamentary act. The Prime Minister must make it clear that he will not permit any changes to the law and will prevent any legal maneuvers aimed at facilitating their removal from the country."

The prime minister ought to advocate for Britain, its rich heritage, and its remarkable cultural institutions, rather than yielding to the demands of activists who reject British history.