The All-Party Parliamentary Archaeology Group at Westminster has launched an inquiry to see what can be done to support responsible metal-detecting in England (specifically) and promote the benefits of archaeologists and metal-detectorists working more closely together. The Group welcomes written submissions (up to 500 words) from anyone by the deadline of 30 April 2024.

Recent changes to the Treasure Act 1996 has broadened the definition of treasure so that is now includes exceptional finds of at least 200 years old regardless of the type of material they are made from. This brings items from the early industrial period into the scope of the Act.

Following the submission of written evidence, the Group will select representative parties to give oral evidence at the Houses of Parliament. The Group will produce a report later in the year on the outcome of the inquiry.

Further details are available on the Group’s website here, including specific questions the inquiry will cover and how to respond.