UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has changed his position on the future of the Parthenon marbles, saying the matter now rests with the British Museum. According to the Financial Times, Burnham had previously supported returning the sculptures to Greece, including a 2023 statement that they should go back "no strings attached."
In his latest comments, Burnham emphasized cultural diplomacy and noted that the legal decision lies with the museum's trustees. His shift marks a notable change in tone on one of the most closely watched heritage debates in Europe.
The marbles date back to the 5th century BCE and were originally part of the Parthenon in Athens. They have been housed in London for more than two centuries, while Greece continues to present its case through the Acropolis Museum, which opened in 2009.
The British Museum maintains that keeping the sculptures in London supports a broader public narrative shared across major museums. As global institutions continue to rethink how heritage is presented and shared, this debate may help shape the future of cultural stewardship.
