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British army to assist at cultural sites in Iraq

The Art Newspaper can reveal that the British Army is to develop a Cultural Heritage Initiative to assist with archaeological sites and museums in southern Iraq. This will be launched with the Iraqi state board of antiquities and heritage, along with the British Museum.

Basra-based Major Tom Holloway told us that the plan is to help at “iconic cultural locations”, and to leave a positive “legacy” after the withdrawal of British forces. The proposal is at an early stage, and is expected to be announced in May.
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Initially, a small team might go out to Basra for a week or two, staying at an Army base and making day trips to the sites, accompanied by guards.

Once it is determined what is needed to repair damage to sites and ensure their protection, the Army plans to use its contacts with Iraqi private contractors to undertake the necessary work...
Read entire article at http://www.theartnewspaper.com