Rishi Sunak appears to rule out return of Elgin Marbles to Greece

The sculptures, also known as the Parthenon Sculptures, were controversially taken from their original site by British diplomat Lord Elgin and brought to the UK.

Mr Sunak's comments come after reports suggested that the British Museum was drawing up an agreement with the Mediterranean nation.

The agreement was thought to be a loan of the artefacts back to Greece in a long-term "cultural exchange".

(PA) Rishi Sunak appears to reject the return of the Elgin Marbles to Greece (Image: PA)

British Museum chair George Osbourne was said to be the driving force behind the effort but this appears to put him at odds with former colleagues.

In 1963, the British Museum Act was passed and prohibits the giving away of objects from its collection except in very limited circumstances.

Sunak rules out law change allowing for the return of artefacts to their country of origin

Speaking to reporters during a trip to San Diego in the United States, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: "The UK has cared for the Elgin Marbles for generations.

"Our galleries and museums are funded by taxpayers because they are a huge asset to this country.

"We share their treasures with the world, and the world comes to the UK to see them.

"The collection of the British Museum is protected by law, and we have no plans to change it."

Since gaining its independence in 1832, Greece has called for the return of the artefacts.

How did the British Museum get the Elgin Marbles?

Lord Elgin, who was the UK ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, removed the statues before they were brought to Britain.

The lengthy operation began in 1801 and was done when Greece was ruled by the Ottomans.

What is The Parthenon Project?

The Parthenon Project aims to reunify the Parthenon Sculptures with their site of origin in Athens, Greece.

It is backed by dozens of MPs from different political parties and seeks to settle the issue once and for all.