http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Council

"The British Council is an arm's length body based in the United Kingdom which specialises in international educational and cultural opportunities. It is incorporated by royal charter and is registered as a charity both in England and Wales, and in Scotland.

Founded in 1934, it was granted a royal charter by King George VI in 1940.[1] Its 'sponsoring department' within the United Kingdom Government is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, although it has day-to-day operational independence. Martin Davidson is its chief executive, appointed in April 2007.[citation needed]"


i can remember MCDONALD coming up with that laughable phrase 'arm's length body'...you mean that your arm is as long as your body?