Algeria

Lord Kinnock Excerpts

Thursday 27th March 2014 Lords Chamber

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon]

I think the organisations to which my noble friend has alluded, not just in Algeria but across the world, play a very important role. It has to be made clear that this is not about interference; it is about the value of sharing good practice and governance procedures. I would point out that Algeria increasingly sees itself as an exporter of stability. For example, it recently hosted peace talks between the Malian Government and opposition groups, and it co-operates well on border security with Mali. Over recent months, Algeria and Tunisia have also increased their co-operation on security issues of mutual concern.

[Lord Kinnock (Lab)]

Will the Minister acknowledge that the British Council’s commitment in Algeria has been highly commendable and, on many occasions in recent years, courageous? Will he further acknowledge that the very welcome strengthened engagement of the council in Algeria, which he referred to, is in spite of significant cuts by the Government in grant in aid and has been made possible by the strengthened commercial performance of the British Council?

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon]

The noble Lord will know that I certainly agree with his first statement. On his second statement, the British Council is supported by the FCO and by Her Majesty’s Government. Together we are demonstrating how important the British Council’s influence is, not just in Algeria but across the world, and long may that continue.