British Museum director quits following alleged theft of artefacts

He acknowledged the museum did not respond 'as comprehensively as it should have'

Hartwig Fischer said on Friday that it was evident the museum "did not respond as comprehensively as it should have" when it was alerted to the thefts in 2021 "and to the problem that has now fully emerged."

In his statement, Fischer said, "the responsibility for that failure must ultimately rest with the director."

He also withdrew remarks he made earlier this week about the art dealer who first alerted the museum, expressing "sincere regret" over the "misjudged" comments.

The museum announced last week that it had sacked a member of staff after treasures were reported "missing, stolen or damaged".

Fischer defended the museum's investigation in 2021 earlier this week, when it had told antiques dealer Ittai Gradel that "all items were accounted for".

In response, Gradel told BBC News: "It's the right thing to do, I think he should have done it sooner but I do accept his apology."

Fischer's statement said he had offered his resignation to the Chairman of the Trustees, "and will step down as soon as the board have established an interim leadership arrangement. This will remain in place until a new director is chosen."

He added that "the situation facing the Museum is of the utmost seriousness" and that his presence was proving a "distraction."

"I sincerely believe it will come through this moment and emerge stronger, but sadly I have come to the conclusion that my presence is proving a distraction.

"That is the last thing I would want. Over the last seven years I have been privileged to work with some of the most talented and dedicated public servants. "The British Museum is an amazing institution, and it has been the honour of my life to lead it."