Spending plans for British Council may force it to close in 60 countries, sources say

The British Council is under immense financial pressure as the UK government cuts overseas aid, risking closure in up to 60 countries. They are proposing spending plans with potential annual reductions of up to 2%, including increasing costs by £20m if additional funding isn't secured. The council already faces debt challenges from a £197m loan now costing £14m annually, leaving it vulnerable without extra support. Influential figures have called for preservation of its funding to safeguard national security and soft power.