Overview

This bill proposes the transfer of ownership of the Parthenon Sculptures (also known as the Elgin Marbles) from the British Museum to the Greek government. The transfer is contingent upon a bilateral agreement between the UK and Greece covering transportation, costs, maintenance, display, and public access to the sculptures.

Description

The bill's main provision is the transfer of ownership of the Parthenon Sculptures to the Greek government. This transfer is subject to a future agreement between the UK and Greek governments. This agreement must define which specific artefacts are included, outline transportation arrangements and responsibilities for costs, set conditions for maintenance and display, and guarantee access for experts, students, and the public. The bill amends the British Museum Act 1963 to exclude the Parthenon Sculptures from its provisions on disposal and transfer of objects. The bill explicitly states that it does not apply to artefacts in other national museums or galleries.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for government spending. However, it will likely incur costs related to negotiating and implementing the agreement with Greece, including the transportation of the sculptures.

Groups Affected

• The Greek Government: Gains ownership of the Parthenon Sculptures and responsibility for their future care and display.
• The British Museum: Loses ownership of the sculptures and must cooperate in the transfer process.
• The Public: May experience changes in access to the sculptures, depending on the terms of the UK-Greece agreement.
• Experts and Scholars: Access to the sculptures for research will be determined by the agreement.

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