Lord Nelson
Paintings of Lord Nelson – one of Britain’s greatest heroes – have been taken down in the House of Commons.
The artwork has been replaced with pictures of Labour figures, including Baroness Hoey, a former minister.
One picture of Nelson shows his death at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
The paintings were removed after an MP-led review of parliamentary art linked to slavery and racism.
Ironically, four images of Elizabeth I have been removed – including ones marking the defeat of the Spanish Armada.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper earlier said:
“Westminster is a changing place, with more women MPs, people from ethnic minorities and people with disabilities.
“It would be great to see this change increasingly represented in the artwork around the estate, providing encouragement and inspiration for future generations of politicians.”
Also, a print of anti-slavery leader William Wilberforce is no longer on view.
A Parliament spokesman said: “There are regular movements to the 26,000 items in its collection due to maintenance, changes to the occupancy of offices and conservation needs.”
Admiral Horatio Nelson defeated the French at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
He was killed by a French “sniper” shooting from the rigging.
The battle was seen was seen as one of Britain’s greatest naval victories.
Nelson’s Column, Trafalgar Square
Lord Nelson was lionized by the nation.
His statue dominates Trafalgar Square in the heart of London.
