First it was the treasures of empire, now it is the emperor himself campaigners want back.

Diplomatic debate has long raged over returning alleged historic plunder like the Elgin Marbles.

A clause covering these supposed imperial spoils has even appeared in negotiations between the UK and EU.

Now French historians have demanded the repatriation of Napoleon III whose remains are in a tomb in a church in Hampshire.

France’s final monarch died in exile and was laid to rest in Farnborough 147 years ago.

Historians in France hope to secure the ultimate artefact of imperialism and have Bonaparte’s body returned as part of deals being made in the wake of Brexit.

A request has been sent to the Foreign Office asking Government to consider Napoleon III, nephew of the bellicose emperor defeated at Waterloo, in any future negotiations over returning cultural treasures.

The leader founded France’s Second Empire and presided over what many see as a Gallic golden age before his ignominious defeat to Prussia.

French historian Dimitri Casali is leading calls for the symbol of his nation's glory to be brought home, and has formally asked the UK Government to consider the emperor's repatriation.

This follows the EU adding an "Elgin Marbles clause" to its demands for a post-Brexit trade deal, and it is hoped a spirit of international amity will prevail

“This is the moment,” Mr Casali told The Daily Telegraph. “I think it’s a gesture, the body of Napoleon III could be a sign.

“It will be an elegant gesture of reconciliation between England and France.

“We created the Entente Cordiale. Perhaps this could be the second Entente Cordiale. It could be a sign of solidarity.”

Napoleon III was laid to rest in St Michael's Abbey, Farnborough, three years after he was defeated by Otto von Bismarck and fled across the Channel. His wife Eugenie is buried nearby.