British Museum Admits to Breaking Law in Handling of Missing Artifacts
The British Museum has concluded its internal investigation and admitted to breaking UK law in its handling of its collection, following the discovery of over 2,000 missing artifacts last year, ART news reports, citing The Times.
The museum confirmed in December 2023 that these items, potentially “unrecoverable” after being sold or defaced, had gone missing. The revelation triggered an internal audit that revealed non-compliance with the Public Records Act, which mandates UK museums and libraries to maintain basic standards of preservation, access, and professional care.
The museum, however, has stated that despite its admitted wrongdoing, it is not facing any immediate threat of having its collection transferred or handed over to the National Archives.
The 2024 report authored by former Chancellor and Chairman of Trustees, George Osborne, and British Museum Director Nicholas Cullinan, confirmed that “a number of actions are currently being considered by management” to ensure compliance with the law.
The missing items, including 1,500 believed to be stolen and 350 with parts removed, have been the subject of ongoing investigation. Over 600 objects have been recovered with the help of the FBI, a feat hailed by Osborne as “far more than many predicted we could recover.”
The investigation has resulted in the dismissal of Peter Higgs, a senior curator, in July 2023. The museum accused him of stealing 1,800 items worth an estimated $130,000 over a decade. Higgs denies these allegations and has not been charged with any offense. However, the museum has initiated a lawsuit against him.
