A threat to the integrity of our great museums

sir – I served as a national museum director from 1988 to 2010. I witnessed the changes that have resulted in the dilution of the ability of trustees to manage the strategic direction of our great museums. George Osborne’s current obsession with returning the Parthenon sculptures (Letters, January 7) is only one example.

In the past, trustees were appointed because they brought influence, expertise and support to the governance of their institutions. Today, anyone can apply to become one. The dilution of experience and the individual’s wish to polish his or her credentials results in the wrong people occupying important public posts.

Widespread ignorance of the difference between strategic governance and tactical management leads to radical change within our museums and galleries to pander to minority causes at the expense of our national and cultural heritage. We hear a lot from the likes of Mr Osborne – but why are museum directors not giving their side of the story? They are, after all, the professionals who have dedicated their lives to preserving and conserving the public property under their stewardship.

Dr Michael A Fopp

Soulbury, Buckinghamshire