A cohort of 34 British members of parliament and public figures has formally called for an immediate cessation of negotiations regarding the return of the Parthenon Marbles to Greece, Sky News has reported.
The group, which includes former Prime Minister Liz Truss, MP John Redwood, and historian Dr. David Starkey, issued a letter accusing the British Museum of engaging in "covert" discussions to repatriate the artifacts.
The letter warns of potential legal action if full transparency is not provided to the public.
Organized by the Great British PAC, the signatories invoke the British Museum Act of 1963, which forbids the permanent deaccessioning of objects from the museum’s collection.
A government spokesperson reiterated that there are no plans to amend this legislation.
The British Museum maintains that it is involved in "constructive discussions" as part of its "Parthenon Partnership" with Greece.
This initiative seeks to balance the sharing of cultural heritage with the integrity of the museum's collection.
The dispute over the marbles, which Greece argues were taken under duress during Ottoman occupation, remains a contentious issue of cultural heritage, legality, and national identity for both nations.