Recommendation 4

Soft power is a crucial source of UK influence and security abroad. Its erosion would have direct security consequences, most clearly in Africa, where Russia and China are increasingly filling the space left by the withdrawal of the soft power presence of the UK and allies. Official Development Assistance and bodies such as the BBC World Service and the British Council play an important role in regions where the UK has clear security interests. The recent funding commitments to the BBC World Service are welcome in this regard. (Conclusion, Paragraph 32) 61