§ 28. Mr. Wigleyasked the Under-Secretary of State answering in respect of the Arts what discussions the Minister for the Arts has had with representatives of the Greek Government during the past three months on the question of the Elgin marbles.
§ Mr. WaldegraveA formal request for the return of the Elgin marbles was made by the Greek ambassador on 12 October. It will, of course, receive careful consideration. As my noble Friend said in Parliament recently, the Government are aware of no general wish to change the existing powers of the British museum's trustees, and do not propose to seek authority to do so.
§ 36. Mr. Canavanasked the Under-Secretary of State answering in respect of the Arts whether the Minister for the Arts will arrange to meet Melina Mercouri, the Greek Minister for the Arts, to discuss the location of the Parthenon marbles.
§ Mr. WaldegraveMy noble Friend has no plans to meet Miss Mercouri to discuss the Parthenon Marbles.
§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Under-Secretary of State answering in respect of the Arts if Her Majesty's Government have received a formal request from the Greek Government for the return of the Parthenon marbles; and what has been the response.
§ Mr. WaldegraveHer Majesty's Government have received a formal request from the Greek Government to take the necessary steps for the return of the Elgin Marbles. A formal reply will be given in due course.