The British Council is an executive non-departmental public body sponsored by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Founded 90 years ago, the Council has a well-established history in promoting UK culture, education and the English language across the globe.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the British Council saw a steep fall in its revenues as it was forced to suspend many of its income-generating activities, such as English language teaching. In response, the FCDO provided the British Council with a loan, of which around £197m remains outstanding. The current loan term comes to an end in September 2026; however, the Council has indicated it is unlikely to be able to pay back the remaining balance under the current arrangements.
The National Audit Office (NAO) will publish the findings of its investigation into the financial sustainability of the British Council in summer 2026.
The investigation is likely to examine the current financial position of the British Council and its relationship with the FCDO. Following the publication, the PAC will hear from senior officials at the FCDO and the British Council to discuss the reports key findings.
If you have evidence on these issues, please send it to us using the link below by 23.59 on Friday 5 June 2026.
Please look at the requirements for written evidence submissions and note that the Committee cannot accept material as evidence that is published elsewhere.