The Bill would allow the UK to ratify the 1954 Convention on the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and to accede to the Convention's two Protocols of 1954 and 1999.
Strengthening the UK's commitment to the protection of our own heritage;
Formalising the UK's responsibilities as part of the international community to respect the cultural property of other nations; and
Demonstrating that the UK takes seriously its commitments under international humanitarian law.
Background:
Consultation on The 1954 Hague Convention on the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and its two Protocols of 1954 and 1999, September 2005
A Summary of Responses Received to the Government's Consultation on The 1954 Hague Convention on the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and its two Protocols of 1954 and 1999, November 2006
Key stakeholders have welcomed the Government's decision to ratify the Convention and accede to its two Protocols, and public consultation has shown a high degree of support for the Government's implementation plans.
This Bill is about armed conflict between states and the measures that need to be taken by Governments to protect cultural property during such conflicts. It is not about acts of terrorism.
Territorial Extent
United Kingdom
The relevant devolved administrations have been consulted. Ministers in the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Assembly and Northern Ireland Assembly have agreed in principle that the Bill will apply to the whole of the UK.
