(1)This section applies to any object which would, but for an order under section 2(2) of the Treasure Act 1996 (c. 24), be treasure within the meaning of that Act and which is found in or under the cathedral church or within its precinct.
(2)Where the administrator of the cathedral becomes aware that an object has been discovered which appears to be an object to which this section applies the administrator—
(a)shall within 14 days notify the Commission in writing of the discovery; and
(b)shall arrange for the object to be recorded in the inventory required to be compiled and maintained under section 24 and designated as treasure in that inventory in accordance with directions issued by the Commission.
(3)On receipt of a notification under subsection (2) the secretary of the Commission shall report the discovery, in writing, to the Secretary of State or to such a person or body as may be designated by the Secretary of State.
(4)The Chapter of the cathedral shall—
(a)before implementing any proposal for the sale, loan or other disposal of an object to which this section applies, apply to the Commission for approval, unless the Commission’s approval is required under section 6; and
(b)before implementing any proposal for the sale or other disposal (other than a loan) of such an object, afford the British Museum or another registered museum nominated by the British Museum an opportunity of purchasing the object.
(5)Rules made under section 26 of the Care of Churches and Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Measure 1991 may prescribe the procedure to be followed in connection with any matters arising under this section and in particular shall make provision for determining the purchase price to be paid under subsection (4)(b) and for the procedure for and the matters to be taken into account in arriving at the purchase price.
(6)In subsection (4)(b) “registered museum” has the meaning ascribed to it in the Code of Practice issued under section 11 of the Treasure Act 1996 or such other meaning as may be specified by the Secretary of State.