§ Mr. Fauldsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) whether he has received representations seeking the return of the beard of the Sphinx presently in the British Museum;
(2) whether he will discuss with the board of trustees of the British Museum the desirability of acceding to the request of the Egyptian Government for the return of the beard of the Sphinx to be reattached to its head and body outside Cairo.
§ Mr. ChannonI have received no formal representations about the return of the Spinx's beard which would in any case be a matter for the trustees of the British Museum. The matter was, however, mentioned during the recent amicable talks that I had with the Egyptian Minister for Culture. I understand that he has discussed the plans for the conservation and repair of the Sphinx with the British Museum. Any further action is a matter for the British Museum trustees and the Egyptian authorities. I know that the trustees and the Egyptian authorities are very anxious to continue their friendly co-operation which has existed for many years.
284W