Overview

This bill amends the Holocaust (Return of Cultural Objects) Act 2009, preventing its expiry. The 2009 Act established a process for considering claims for the return of cultural objects stolen during the Holocaust, and this bill extends its lifespan indefinitely.

Description

The primary purpose of the Holocaust (Return of Cultural Objects) (Amendment) Act 2019 is to remove the sunset clause from the 2009 Act. The 2009 Act was originally set to expire on November 11, 2019. This amendment removes that expiration date, making the Act's provisions permanent. The bill extends to England, Wales, and Scotland and comes into force upon passing.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly allocate new government spending. The ongoing costs associated with administering the claims process under the 2009 Act will continue, but no specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Heirs of Holocaust victims: This bill potentially benefits heirs seeking the return of cultural objects looted during the Holocaust, as the legal framework for making such claims remains in place.
• Museums and institutions holding potentially looted objects: Institutions possessing cultural objects with questionable provenance may face continued scrutiny under the extended Act.
• Government bodies: Relevant government departments will continue to be responsible for administering the claims process.

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