16 January 2008 Russian Actions Against British Council
We regret reports of an escalation of actions taken by Russian authorities against the staff and activities of the British Council in St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg. The British Council operates in 110 other countries and territories worldwide and its efforts to promote cultural and educational exchanges play a vital role in increasing understanding between the peoples of the United Kingdom and Russia. We hope this matter will be resolved fairly and expeditiously and in a manner that will allow the British Council to continue its good work in Russia.