SCA Panel to Inspect Privately Owned Relics

Egypt State Information Service

In accordance with the newly approved antiquities law, Culture Minister Farouq Hosni ordered on 10 March 2010 the formation of a standing committee to inspect and register relics owned by individuals.

The law requires Egyptians who have Jewish, Coptic and Islamic antiquities to report their belongings to the committee, which is affiliated to the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) as of this month.

The law, which forbids trade in antiquities, allows possession of antiquities with some individuals, on condition that they cannot use them to benefit others, or to damage and neglect them, SCA Secretary-General Zahi Hawass said.

"These antiquities can, in future only, be given as a gift with the SCA's authorisation. They may also be passed on as part of an inheritance," Hawass added.