The Parthenon sculptures "belong to the United Kingdom" and there is no intention to return them to Greece, said British Culture Minister Michelle Donelan.

Speaking to BBC Radio, she pointed out that returning them to Greece was not in the UK's intentions. "They will not be returned. That is not its intention. It has no intention of doing that," Donnellan said of the British Museum, among other things.

However, British Museum representative Connor Watson said that "we are considering long-term partnerships" and noted that the Parthenon sculptures "belong here in the UK" and should not be returned to Greece.

Mr. Watson was asked to comment on the statement, saying, "As the chairman of the commissioners recently said, we are acting within the law and will not disband the museum's collection as it tells the story of humanity. However, we are looking for long-term partnerships that would allow some of our most important exhibits to be shared around the world. Discussions with Greece about a partnership for the Parthenon are ongoing.".