Andrew George MP, Chair of the Marbles Reunited campaign [1] has asked during Prime Ministers questions whether now should be the time to return the Elgin Marbles to Greece. Unfortunately, his suggestion was strongly rejected by the Prime Minister – although it clarify the views of the current government on the subject – something that was assumed previously, but had not been confirmed.
From:
Andrew George MP [2]
ANDREW GEORGE MP, HOUSE OF COMMONS, LONDON SW1A 0AA
PRESS RELEASE, Wednesday 22nd June 2011, For immediate release
Losing our marbles?The MP who leads the British campaign for the restitution of the Parthenon Marbles called upon the Prime Minister not to provide a unilateral contribution to the Greek bail out but to give the Marbles back.
In his question to the PM he said that the return of the ‘Elgin’ Marbles would help to regenerate the flagging Greek economy and put right a wrong committed over 200 years ago.
The Prime Minister refused to consider such a proposal but Mr George argues that public opinion is on his side and that following the recent creation of the new Acropolis Museum Athens would be a far better place for the Marbles, whilst the casts which the British Museum sent to Athens to replace them could be returned for display in London.
ENDS