Athens has always insisted that Lord Elgin stole the ancient sculptures

Britain faces having to return the Elgin Marbles as part of a free trade deal with the European Union after Greece demanded a clause is inserted in the agreement.

A draft negotiating mandate circulated among European governments in Brussels today hardened EU demands in key traditional trade areas, particularly fishing, but also included the unexpected “return and restitution” line.

“The parties should address issues relating to the return or restitution of unlawfully removed cultural objects to their country of origin,” said a newly drafted text that will be signed off by EU governments next week.

The Greek government has said that Brexit will shift the political balance within the EU to force Britain to return the fifth century BC marbles.

Greece insists they were stolen