MP calls for answers over Banksy artwork removal (From Haringey Independent)

MP Lynne Featherstone calls for answers over Banksy artwork removal from Turnpike Lane

10:23am Tuesday 19th February 2013 in News By Bruce Thain

An MP has hit out at those behind the removal of the Turnpike Lane Banksy, saying auctioning the artwork “just isn’t right”.

Hornsey and Wood Green MP Lynne Featherstone is investigating the disappearance of the graffiti from the side of Poundland in Whymark Avenue and its reappearance on an online auction site.

The Lib Dem MP said: “The Banksy piece added something different to Turnpike Lane and attracted many people to the area.

“It’s a huge shame to have the piece ripped from the building and put up for auction in the US for hundreds of thousands of pounds. This just isn’t right.

“Poundland has said it is not responsible, but I want to find out who is. I will be making enquiries today to Poundland and the building's owners and will keep residents updated.”

The image, of an Asian child making Union Jack bunting, appeared overnight in May last year and was seen to be condemning child labour and mocking the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Olympic celebrations.

The work has appeared on the US Fine Art Auctions Miami website with a starting price of $400,000, equivalent to more than £250,000.

Haringey Borough Council's Labour Group yesterday launched a petition calling for the sale to be suspended by the auction website.