Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

British Council: Global Britain

18 November 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by John Baron Con Basildon and Billericay

Foreign AffairsCulture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

John Baron raised concerns about british council: global britain in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • British Council highlights its role in promoting British culture, education, arts, and the English language abroad
  • Concern raised over planned closures due to funding shortfall during the pandemic
  • Minister commits to working closely with the British Council on future decisions regarding closures

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

John Baron Con Basildon and Billericay

Thanking various stakeholders for their support, John Baron highlights the importance of the British Council in promoting British culture, education, arts, and the English language abroad. He notes that despite receiving only 15% of its income from the state, it remains one of the UK's most effective soft power institutions. However, he expresses concern over planned closures due to a funding shortfall during the pandemic, arguing these could hinder future initiatives and leave room for competitors to fill gaps. Baron also raises the urgent need to assist Afghan nationals who worked with the British Council and are now in danger.

Other contributors (1)
  • Bob Stewart Constitutional Beckenham

    Expressed support for John Baron's concerns about the British Council and the plight of Afghans.

Government Response

James Cleverly

Minister James Cleverly acknowledges the importance of the British Council in promoting global Britain, emphasising its role in enhancing cultural exchanges and trust between nations. He praises the organisation's response to the pandemic and highlights its ambitious targets for the future. Cleverly reassures Baron that while financial constraints exist, decisions regarding further closures will be made in close consultation with the British Council. Additionally, he commits to working cross-departmentally to expedite assistance for Afghan nationals who worked with the British Council.

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