§ Mr. Juddasked the Minister of Overseas Development what are the latest arrangements for overseas representation of the British Volunteer Programme; what is the extent of the responsibility of the British Council in this respect; and what financial assistance is provided to the British Council on account of this responsibility.
§ Mr. OramIn countries where the British Council is represented it acts, on request, as the overseas arm for four of the five voluntary societies.
In countries where the British Council is not represented arrangements vary. In some cases the British High Commission or Embassy is responsible. In others the voluntary societies have arrangements with local organisations with which they may be associated. In dependent territories the local Government is responsible.
The British Council's main responsibilities are, in consultation with the local Government, to evaluate and recommend projects, to negotiate terms of service for volunteers, to assist with their briefing, professional training and welfare and to report to the voluntary societies on their work.
The Estimates provide for payment of £135,000 to the British Council during the current financial year on this account.