Greece calls for Elgin talks

The Elgin Marbles are also known as the Parthenon Sculptures

Greece's Foreign Minister has expressed hope that a more positive dialogue can begin with the UK Government over the future of the Elgin Marbles.

George Papandreou made the call during an "emotional visit" to see the famous treasures at the British Museum in London.

The Marbles were removed from the Parthenon in Athens by Lord Elgin and taken to Britain in 1817.

They are here, we have looked after them well, they are available to everyone for free

Culture Secretary, Chris Smith

The Greeks have long wanted them back, and have plans for a new museum to house them next to the Acropolis.

Mr Papandreou said: "I see this as an important opening of a dialogue on this very important issue.

"It is very important and sensitive to both our countries. We do believe this issue can be resolved."

Touchy subject

The British Museum is equally keen to keep the Marbles, arguing that they are best seen as part of a great international collection visited by six million people each year.

It is a stance shared by the British Government.

Culture Secretary Chris Smith said: "They belong to the British Museum, they are in the British Museum. I am delighted that the British Museum has invited him to go and have a look.

The sculptures were removed during Ottoman Turkish rule

"The point we have made very strongly is that they are here, we have looked after them well, they are available to everyone for free."

The current Lord Elgin has also pledged support for the government, saying it would be a shame if the Marbles were returned to Greece.

Mr Papandreou is due to be questioned about the future of the antiquities on Monday by a Commons select committee.

He will be giving evidence as part of an inquiry into illicit trade in cultural property by the Select Commitee on Culture.

Attention has focused on the Elgin or Parthenon marbles ever since members of the committee, chaired by Gerald Kaufman, visited Athens earlier this year.

A recent straw poll of British MPs found a majority in favour of returning the Marbles, and the Greeks may sense a slight softening of attitudes in Britain.

But the official British position remains that the Marbles should stay in their London home.