Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee
LCM for the Cultural Objects (Protection from Seizure) Bill from National Library of Scotland
Letter from Amina Shah, Chief Executive And National Librarian, National Library of Scotland, to the Convener, 18 February 2022
Dear Clare Adamson
I am writing in response to your letter of 7 February in relation to the Legislation Consent Memorandum (LCM) for the Cultural Objects (Protection from Seizure) Bill. I am aware that my colleagues at the National Galleries of Scotland and National Museums Scotland support the Cultural Objects (Protection from Seizure) Bill extending the period of protection by up to 3 months at the discretion of the Scottish Ministers. I echo that support.
Whilst the National Library has not sought Approved Status, our collections have contributed towards high profile exhibitions greatly enhanced by the display of objects made possible by the Cultural Objects (Protection from Seizure) Act.
The extension proposed under the amendment will reassure potential lenders that protection will not be lost if delays prevent the return of objects within the current maximum 12-monthperiod.
The National Library supports the Bill in recognition of the impact the extension to the duration of protection may have on future exhibitions to be held here in Scotland.
Amina Shah
Chief Executive and National Librarian