British Council Chief Executive to give evidence on UK foreign policy

Chief Executive of the British Council Sir Ciarán Devane will appear before the House of Lords International Relations Committee on Wednesday 20 June as part of its inquiry UK Foreign Policy in Changed World Conditions.

The session will focus on UK soft power and the impact of technological changes, and the British Council’s engagement with rising powers and Russia. 

The Committee’s inquiry was launched in January 2018 to examine the changing face of international relations and foreign policy, and to assess the UK’s strategy and capability to adapt to these changes.

Appearing at 10.40am Sir Ciarán Devane is likely be asked questions including:

• What are the UK’s main soft power assets, and to what extent have they been affected by new technologies? 
• To what extent is the Government equipped to best develop and utilise the UK’s soft power?
• How effectively is the British Council engaging with emerging powers such as China and India?
• To what extent do tensions with Russia, including the closure of the British Council demonstrate the limits of cultural diplomacy and soft power?

The evidence session will take place in Committee Room 4.