Sir David Attenborough has written to the Prime Minister to urge his intervention to safeguard the learned societies at Burlington House, whose contributions to the planet’s welfare Attenborough says are under severe threat from the grossly escalating rent imposed by Government.
The letter comes as pressure mounts on the Government after a public campaign by the four learned societies – The Geological Society, Linnean Society, Society of Antiquaries and the Royal Astronomical Society – led to a Westminster Hall Debate on 8th June 2021. The debate saw MHCLG representative Eddie Hughes MP come under fire from a broad all-party group of MPs, calling on the Government to fundamentally reconsider the way it handles Burlington House and its occupants.
You can read more here.
Michael Wood FSA has made a video to help us build on the mounting support from across the UK and beyond, to urge the Government to help us find a new basis for tenure. From unearthing secrets of the Staffordshire Hoard, to finding out the true life of Richard III – he highlights what makes Burlington House so special. We need your support more than ever as we enter into a critical stage in our campaign to remain at Burlington House. Please share Michael’s video with your MP and share it with friends and colleagues. For more information about how you can help visit our campaign page.
Professor Brian Cox discussed the plight of the learned societies on BBC4 Today programme on Friday 30 July.