Andy Burnham, the UK prime minister, says responsibility for the Elgin Marbles’ future should sit with the British Museum. He calls for the museum to choose what happens to the sculptures, rather than the UK government directing the outcome.
The comments come despite Burnham’s previous position. Two years earlier, he supported returning the sculptures to Greece, describing a proposal to send them “with no strings attached.” The outlet also frames the change as a shift away from pushing for removal from the museum, focusing instead on institutional decision-making.
The story reflects the wider debate on restitution of cultural objects taken during the 19th century. Different outlets and public figures have argued for different approaches, including full return, shared stewardship, or retention with conditions, while supporters of each option cite varying legal, historical, and ethical considerations.
