George Osborne is negotiating a 'reciprocal loan deal' that would send the Elgin Marbles back to Greece.
The former chancellor, now the chairman of the British Museum, is understood to be discussions with Greek government over a deal that would return the marbles to Athens on a long-term basis.
As part of the deal, Athens would provide the museum with ancient Greek artefacts, many of which have never been shown in the UK.
Importantly, the British Museum would not give up its legal ownership of the sculptures, which would require a change in the law.
The deal is to hoped to come into effect later this decade when the British Museum closes for refurbishment as part of the upcoming redevelopment of the Bloomsbury site in London.
