The UK has imposed a temporary export ban on a white silk robe and dagger owned by T E Lawrence - better known as 'Lawrence of Arabia' - amid efforts to find a local buyer for the iconic artefacts linked to British

history. 

Culture minister Ed Vaizey, who ordered the bars, said it was vital the "classic objects remain in the UK".

Archaeologist Lawrence was a well known World War I diplomat who worked closely with Arab leaders.

It comes after a review said the items were integral to him and UK history, the BBC reported today.