UK scientists oppose repatriation laws forcing handover of Aboriginal bones to indigenous groups. Collections of 18,000 specimens including skeletons vital for studying human migration out of Africa. Bones reveal ancient migration patterns, mixing, diets via isotopes. Comparative scale needed to assess Neanderthal species status against modern human variation. Ethnic group skulls crucial for forensic facial reconstruction accuracy. US Nagpra law erodes collections as tribes rebury or destroy bones. Aboriginals claim colonial theft and spiritual right to repossess remains. Some UK museums already returned material voluntarily. Bureaucracy for provenance could cripple unfunded research. Scientists argue case-by-case over blanket repatriation. Remains span linked-to-living to unlinked ancient bones. Aboriginal researcher says many specimens lack research value. Compromise requires community consent for future studies.