Petition · past parliament

Amend the British Museum Act 1963 so as to enable the repatriation of artefacts.

Rejected 11 signatures

What the petition asks

The British Museum Act 1963 does not make provision for the widely supported permanent return of the 'Elgin' (Parthenon) Marbles to Greece. In the name of justice and decency, Parliament must respond to the British public's calls for the repatriation of the Marbles by amending the Act.
The 'Elgin' Marbles rightfully belong to Greece. Their removal from the Parthenon in the early 19th century and their later placement in the British Museum constituted no less than ruthless imperialism. It is highly objectionable and unfortunate that the Trustees of the British Museum, by virtue of the British Museum Act, have the ability to ignore the continuation of this injustice. Now is the time to change the law so as to facilitate the return of the Marbles.

Why it was rejected

There was already a petition about this issue. Duplicates are rejected so signatures collect in one place.

You may wish to sign this petition which calls for the same action: Amend the British Museum Act to allow the acceptance of repatriation requests

Timeline

2 Feb 2023 Petition opened for signatures
6 Feb 2023 Rejected by the Petitions Committee

Key facts

Signatures 11
Status Rejected
Rejected 6 Feb 2023

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.