Hartwig Fischer said the museum 'did not respond as comprehensively as it should have' to the thefts.
Mr Fischer said he would step down as soon as the museum's board had established an interim leadership arrangement."Over the last few days I have been reviewing in detail the events around the thefts from the British Museum and the investigation into them.
"I also misjudged the remarks I made earlier this week about Dr Gradel. I wish to express my sincere regret and withdraw those remarks. "The situation facing the Museum is of the utmost seriousness. I sincerely believe it will come through this moment and emerge stronger, but sadly I have come to the conclusion that my presence is proving a distraction.
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