§ 63. Mr. Mayhewasked the Undersecretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he will make a statement on the work of the British Council in Commonwealth countries.
§ Mr. J. FosterThe work of the British Council is described in detail in their Annual Report. Its main work in the independent Commonwealth countries is in India and Pakistan, where the Council does much to maintain an interest in English studies and the achievements of this country, and provides for the exchange of information in technical, educational and other fields of knowledge. The Council is not represented in Canada and will shortly cease to be represented in Australia, New Zealand and Ceylon. The services which the Council provides from the United Kingdom are, of course, available for all Commonwealth countries. These include Council scholarships and bursaries, the University Interchange Scheme, the provision of lecturers and book exhibitions, and facilities to visitors and students in this country.
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§ 64. Mr. Mayhewasked the Undersecretary of State for Commonwealth Relations why the decision to withdraw the British Council from Australia, New Zealand and Ceylon was taken without consultation with the Executive Committee of the Council.
§ Mr. J. FosterThe decision by Her Majesty's Government that the British Council should cease to be represented in Australia, New Zealand and Ceylon, was taken as a result of the recent visit of my noble Friend to these countries. On his return he informed the Chairman of the Executive of the reasons for this decision, and discussed with him the consequential arrangements.