Seek to negotiate with France to permanently keep the Bayeux Tapestry in the UK

Background

We ask the Government to seek to negotiate with France to permanently keep the Bayeux Tapestry in the UK. As a masterpiece which many historians believe was created by Anglo-Saxons, depicting Norman England's birth, we think this foundation monument of our monarchy and state belongs in the UK.

Additional details

We believe the Bayeux Tapestry is a UK treasure in exile. Many art historians agree it was stitched in England by Anglo-Saxon needleworkers, in our view the finest in medieval Europe, and its narrative captures a key moment in the birth of our modern state and royal lineage. While it will be loaned to the British Museum, we think it should remain here permanently. We call on the Government to open formal diplomatic negotiations with France to agree its permanent future in the UK, securing a vital piece of our national identity.

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