British Council

The British Council is a non-departmental public body and registered charity for cultural relations in the United Kingdom. Its Chair is Lord Kinnock, the former leader of the Labour Party. It answers to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Related Topics:
Non-departmental public body - Registered charity - United Kingdom - Chair - Lord Kinnock - Labour Party - Foreign and Commonwealth Office

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The British Council aims to build mutually beneficial cultural and educational relationships between people in the United Kingdom and in other countries, and increase appreciation of the United Kingdom's creative ideas and achievements. Its overseas network extends over 110 countries. Around 65% of its income is self-generated through teaching English, conducting examinations and managing aid and development projects. The remainder of the funding is provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, which is providing a grant of £186.2 million for the year beginning 2005.

Related Topics:
English - Foreign and Commonwealth Office - 2005

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Founded in 1934 as the British Committee for Relations with Other Countries, the British Council was inspired by Sir Reginald ('Rex') Leeper's recognition of the importance of 'cultural propaganda' in promoting Britain.

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The British Council has had frequent charges of Anglocentricism, and been accused of neglecting the promotion of minority British cultures (such as Gaelic, Cornish and Welsh)

Related Topics:
Anglocentricism - Gaelic - Cornish - Welsh

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