UK Export Controls and National Treasures

This article describes the UK’s export control system for works of art and objects of cultural interest, with a focus on the protection of its national treasures. Beginning with an overview of the historical development of export controls in the UK, it goes on to outline the current legislative framework and the different types of export licences that are currently issued under both UK law and EU regulation. The process of assessing cultural objects as potential national treasures is set out, including descriptions of the Waverley criteria and the role of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest. The impact of the export controls is then examined, with reference to statistics for the year 2017-2018. Finally, there is a brief discussion on the potential impact of Brexit.