Talks to return Elgin marbles

SECRET talks are being held between George Osborne, chair of the British Museum, and the Greek prime minister over the possible return of the Elgin Marbles.

- Marco Giannangeli

Negotiations between the former chancellor and Kyriakos Mitsotakis have been taking place in London since November 2021, according to Greek newspaper Ta Nea.

The museum has vowed not to “dismantle our great collection” after the paper said the talks are at an “advanced stage”. But it said it is seeking a “positive” partnership over the sculptures – 17 figures and part of a frieze that decorated the 2,500-year-old Parthenon temple at the Acropolis – that Mr Mitsotakis wants returned.