Ratification of the Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict

Lord Maclennan of Rogart Excerpts

Monday 12th May 2014 Lords Chamber

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

My Lords, I of course understand the noble Earl’s position. It has not been possible for either the current or the previous Government to secure the parliamentary time needed to pass the relevant legislation. It was necessary for both Governments to take it up by giving priority to measures for economic recovery and reform.

[Lord Maclennan of Rogart (LD)]

My Lords, does the Minister recognise that there has in recent years been a considerable and avoidable loss of cultural heritage as a result of armed conflict? Does he not acknowledge that in 2008 the previous Government published the draft Cultural Property (Armed Conflicts) Bill for consultation? We have had 10 years since the Government’s concerns were removed by the passage of the second protocol. Can he not find some time for this? Parliament would be very keen to see this enacted.

[Baroness Butler-Sloss (CB)]

My Lords—