Service reductions at the British Council

Early day motion 273, tabled 1 July 2021 by Chris Stephens (Scottish National Party). Signed by 34 members.

That this House acknowledges the vital role of the British Council in promoting education, training and language across the globe; notes that it was created in 1934 to improve global cultural relations and social mobility and currently works with over 100 countries worldwide changing the lives of millions and helping people to understand other cultures as well as promoting British values; is aware that the British Council employs over 11,000 people across the world with over 1000 being UK based staff; is further aware that ordinarily the British Council generates 85 per cent of its income through teaching and examinations but has faced major difficulties due to the covid-19 pandemic; further notes that in 2020 thanks to the campaigning efforts of the PCS Union and other supportive organisations and individuals, additional money was secured from Government to see the organisations through its financial difficulties; is concerned that the loans provided as well as emergency funding has come with stringent and detrimental conditions determined by the FCDO including the sale of a section of its commercial business in India, a restructure resulting in a 15 to 20 per cent cut to staffing and estates related to the organisation potentially resulting in the loss of around 2000 skilled and vital jobs; and therefore calls on the FCDO to halt the redundancy process and support the British Council in future strategic and detailed planning which retains jobs and the valued reputation of the organisation across the world.

Signatures by party: Scottish National Party 12, Labour 11, Liberal Democrat 4, DUP 2, Alliance 1, Conservative 1, Green 1, Independent 1, Labour/Co-operative 1.