§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their policy concerning the teaching of English by the British Council to the local employees of British oil companies in Burma. [HL3378]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe British Council is doing excellent work in Burma. Its programme of English teaching reaches ordinary Burmese people from all walks of life, including many who would otherwise not have a chance to learn the language. The council's aim is to open up educational opportunities and act as a source of uncensored news and information to those who would not otherwise have access to them. There is no policy to exclude employees of British companies from the council's services.