George Osborne Rejects No 10's Influence in British Museum Director Selection

Former Chancellor George Osborne opposed demands from Downing Street for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to choose the British Museum's new director, emphasizing the need for the institution's independence.

George Osborne, chairman of the British Museum, clashed with No 10 over its attempt to influence the appointment of Nicholas Cullinan as the new director.
Downing Street's intervention is part of a broader pattern of governmental attempts to control public institutions, critics claim.
The trustees of the British Museum proceeded with Cullinan's appointment, maintaining the museum's customary practice of independence.
This incident has sparked discussions about the politicization of cultural institutions and the integrity of their governance.
The British Museum recently faced a scandal involving the theft of 1,800 artifacts, highlighting internal challenges amid external pressures.