HC Deb 26 March 1970 vol 798 cc529-30W
Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what countries the British Council operates in in which the United Kingdom has no diplomatic representation; and whether there are countries in which the British Council is represented in which the United Kingdom does not recognise the Government.

Mr. Foley

The British Council does not at present operate in any countries in which the United Kingdom has no diplomatic representation. The only country in which the British Council is represented with which the United Kingdom is not at present in normal relations is Lesotho.

Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many members of the House of Lords, Members of Parliament, trade union leaders and local authority councillors have lectured abroad under the British Council's auspices in each of the last five years; and if he will indicate the countries visited and the subject of the lectures.

Mr. Foley

I regret that this information is not readily available in the form requested, but I will write to the hon. Member.

Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the operation of the British Council in Rhodesia; and what administrative arrangements are made for it to operate without financial assistance from Her Majesty's Government.

Mr. Foley

The British Council does not operate in Southern Rhodesia.