The third volume of the British Council’s collection of essays, Britain and Ireland: Lives Entwined, was launched in May. Contributions by thinkers and political figures, including Nobel peace laureate, John Hume, explore relations between the countries.

Pioneering filmmaker Steve McQueen has been selected to represent Britain at the 53rd Venice Biennale, the British Council announced on 24 June. McQueen will present a solo exhibition in the British Pavilion to be shown from June to November 2009.

A report by the UK's National Audit Office is welcomed by the British Council, following a review of our work around the world. Published on 11 June, the report concludes that our performance is strong and valued by customers and stakeholders.