STORY
The British Council faces further job losses and the possible closure of operations in 11 countries as it works to repay a £197 million Covid-era Government loan, according to reporting on a National Audit Office assessment. The organisation, which promotes UK culture and education overseas, has faced continuing financial pressure since the pandemic.
The watchdog said the British Council remained loss-making and was not expected to return to profit until 2029-30. The loan was provided after the pandemic severely affected income from exams, teaching and other services which had previously helped fund the organisation’s international work.
The findings raise further questions about the future funding of one of the UK’s main soft-power institutions. The British Council operates at arm’s length from Government but relies on public support as well as commercial income to maintain cultural, educational and diplomatic activity overseas.