Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The British Council has faced challenges due to the pandemic, including forced closures of country operations and a high-interest loan from the government. The council delivers over £1 billion in global impact annually.
What assessment have you made of the British Council’s financial sustainability given its significant role in promoting UK arts, culture, education, and soft power? During the pandemic, it was forced to close 18 country operations with no reopening yet. The loan given under commercial terms costs £14 million a year in interest. Will the Minister help the council keep delivering on government objectives by reviewing loan terms?
Ministers are aware of the issues related to the £200 million loan given on commercial terms due to compliance with subsidy control regime. On January 6th, my ministerial colleagues met the British Council’s CEO to discuss these issues.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to reviewing or changing the loan terms as requested.
Under Review
Response accuracy