Cornish MPs Call for Greater Recognition of Cornwall’s Culture and Heritage

All of Cornwall's Members of Parliament have come together to call for greater recognition of the Duchy's culture, language and history at historic sites across the country.

Cross-party letter to Historic England

The letter, led by Anna Gelderd MP and co-signed by every Cornish MP, was sent to the Chief Executive of Historic England. It warns of a "significant educational gap" in how Cornwall's story is presented, particularly to younger generations.

While many schoolchildren in Cornwall learn about Norman or Tudor castles during visits, the MPs say they are far less likely to encounter Cornwall's own early heritage, such as courtyard houses, decorated crosses and early Christian oratories. Even when these sites are visited, there is often limited educational provision to bring them to life.

The MPs are calling for Cornish heritage to be given the same status, protection and promotion as other Celtic heritage sites in the UK. They also want on-site interpretation and learning resources that reflect Cornwall's distinct cultural identity, which is formally recognised under the European Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities.

"Cornwall's history is not to be sidelined"

Anna Gelderd, Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall, said:

"It is unacceptable that local young people can go through school without experiencing the most important parts of their own history when visiting heritage sites. Cornwall's history is not to be sidelined, it is a rich, distinct story in its own right that should be taught, celebrated and protected.

"Our young people deserve to learn about Cornish history and their own heritage, and our visitors deserve to understand the true depth of our culture. My work in Parliament, including my own Bill, is about building a strong sense of self and place, and ensuring our communities' stories are celebrated."

The letter also urges Historic England to work with English Heritage and other relevant bodies to address this gap, and to ensure Cornwall's National Minority Status is properly considered in their work.

Building on work in Parliament

The call follows Anna's Cornish Language and Heritage (Education and Recognition) Bill, introduced earlier this year. The Bill seeks to encourage the teaching and promotion of the Cornish language within schools and colleges, as well as increase its visibility in public spaces and services across Cornwall.

It marked a historic moment for Cornish culture at Westminster, with Kernewek being spoken in the House of Commons for the first time in 26 years.

Looking to the future

The MPs thanked Historic England's outgoing Chief Executive, Duncan Wilson CBE, for his decade of leadership, and expressed hope that his successor will place greater emphasis on Cornwall's national significance within the UK's heritage landscape.