The Great British PAC has written to Trinity College, Cambridge, raising alarm over the failure to prosecute those responsible for vandalising a historic portrait of Lord Balfour in March this year.
In a letter made public today, Deputy Universities Director Jake Watts, himself a student at the University of Cambridge, expressed “grave concern” over Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s decision to drop the investigation into the defacement of the 1914 portrait by famed artist Philip Alexius de László.
The act, carried out on 8th March 2024, was publicly claimed by Palestine Action – a radical protest group known for its unlawful tactics. Despite the incident being captured on video and the college having comprehensive CCTV coverage, police stated they could not identify a suspect.
Jake Watts said:
“When a group publicly admits to defacing a piece of British heritage and the police walk away, something has gone badly wrong. Our national institutions deserve protection, not political hesitation.”
The Great British PAC, which champions the integrity of academic institutions, is now exploring a private prosecution to ensure accountability. The organisation has posed several questions to Trinity College, asking what evidence was shared with police and whether the college pressed for a full investigation.
The letter also questions whether sufficient pressure was applied by the college to ensure all investigative avenues were pursued.
Jake Reed, Universities Director at Great British PAC, added:
“This isn’t just about one painting. It’s about the message we send to radicals who think violence and vandalism are acceptable in a university setting. We won’t let silence be the final word.”
The PAC is now calling on Trinity College to share any further relevant footage and clarify what steps are being taken to prevent similar acts in the future.
The portrait of Lord Balfour, a former Prime Minister and key historical figure, is considered a culturally significant artefact. Its desecration has sparked outrage among academics, students, and the wider public.
Watts concluded by saying the Great British PAC will “pursue every legal route available” to ensure justice is served.
