I was delighted to have played a role in helping the Learned Societies of Society of Antiquaries, Geological Society, Linnean Society and the Royal Astronomical Society to find an affordable, workable solution that allows them to continue their work at Burlington House, where they have been based for 150 years.
The government was looking to increase rent for the Learned Societies which would have forced their departure from Burlington House. However, following a parliamentary debate and cross-party campaign in which I played a key role, I am delighted that the government agreed in March this year to grant a 999-year leasehold agreement to the Learned Societies, allowing them to protect the scientific and cultural ecosystem at Burlington House.
