‘Rhodes must NOT fall!’ Oxford plaque commemorating imperialist which sparked years of protests could be given listed status ‘so future generations can learn all aspects of city’s heritage’
- The memorial at Oriel College is said to be considered vulnerable to vandalism
- Historic England says the Cecil Rhodes plaque does not merit legal protection
- Culture Secretary Dorries believes it should be protected for future generations
A plaque commemorating the imperialist Cecil Rhodes at Oxford University could be given listed status by the Government.
It is understood the memorial, at Oriel College, is considered vulnerable to vandalism.
Historic England says it does not merit legal protection, but this is due to be overturned by Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries. She is understood to believe that it should be protected so future generations can learn about all aspects of Oxford’s heritage.
The Cecil Rhodes plaque at Oxford University could be given listed status by the Government. It is understood the memorial, at Oriel College (pictured), is considered vulnerable to vandalism
The Cecil Rhodes plaque is situated near to the famous statue (pictured) at Oriel College
Historic England says it does not merit legal protection, but this is due to be overturned by Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries. She is understood to believe that it should be protected so future generations can learn about all aspects of Oxford’s heritage (pictured on Tuesday)
‘The Culture Secretary… believes the plaque to be of special architectural and historic interest and there will now be a standard 21-day consultation,’ said a spokesman for the culture department. ‘No final decision has been made.’
The plaque is near the statue of 19th century businessman and colonialist Rhodes that sparked years of protests by campaigners. Free speech advocates accuse them of trying to censor history.