Under consideration PE2245: Keep the William Wallace letter in Scotland
Calling on the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Government to keep the Wallace Letter, known as the Safe conduct/Letter of introduction, in Scotland.
The letter is on loan from the National Archives and is a key item of significant cultural importance to Scotland and our history. It is due to end its loan period in September 2026, and we want the letter extended indefinitely and kept where it is most significant.
Background information
The Wallace letter was given to William Wallace by the King of France around 1299-1300 as an introduction to the Pope. It was taken from William Wallace in London prior to his judiciary execution. Had Wallace not been captured the letter would be in the National Archives of Scotland.
The letter was secured on loan in 2012 and has been displayed in Scotland several times, the last being in 2024.
We understand that the National Records of Scotland does not intend to ask for an extension and the National Archives, located in Kew, England has stated that it would like to take the letter back.
This letter is one of the few items we know Wallace had and as he is Scotland’s National hero the letter is of huge significance to Scotland’s culture.
57 signatures
This petition is now under consideration
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