SALISBURY’S copy of the Magna Carta is off to the House of Lords for a special exhibition in February.
The House is accommodating an exhibition commemorating 800 years of parliamentary history, and this will feature all four surviving copies – with Lincoln Cathedral and the British Library (two copies) lending the others.
The year-long programme of UK-wide events and activities will commemorate the 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta (June 15, 1215) and the 750th anniversary of the first meeting of the Simon De Montfort parliament (January 20, 1265).
After the display in Parliament, Salisbury’s copy of the Magna Carta will be returned for a new permanent exhibition, Magna Carta – The Power of Words.
The Dean of Salisbury, the Very Revd June Osborne, said: “Salisbury's copy of Magna Carta has never thus far left the precincts of the cathedral but we are delighted to recognise this anniversary by supporting the reunification of the four original documents and their display in Parliament.
“It will launch a year of celebrations at the heart of which is our gratitude for the rule of law and all the social virtues which flow from that principle, including our commitments to equality, dignity and the pursuit of justice for all.”
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