Foreign and Commonwealth Office Facts for Kids

The Foreign Office in Whitehall

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (often called the Foreign Office) is an important part of the Government of the United Kingdom. Its main job is to look after British interests and citizens all over the world. This includes working with other countries and helping people who are travelling or living abroad.

The person in charge of this department is called the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. Most people just call them the "Foreign Secretary". This role is one of the four most important jobs in the government's Cabinet. The Cabinet is a group of senior ministers who make big decisions for the country. At the time this was written, Jeremy Hunt was the Foreign Secretary.

What the Foreign Office Does
- Helping British Citizens Abroad
- Working with Other Countries
The Foreign Secretary's Role
- Key Responsibilities
History of the Foreign Office
- How it Started
- Important Moments
The Main Building
- Architecture and Design
- Inside the Building
Images for kids
See also

What the Foreign Office Does

The Foreign Office helps the UK connect with other countries. They work to keep peace and solve global problems. This department also helps British citizens when they are outside the UK.

Helping British Citizens Abroad

If you are a British citizen travelling or living in another country, the Foreign Office can help you. They have embassies and consulates in many countries. These offices can help if you lose your passport, get into trouble, or need urgent help.

Working with Other Countries

The Foreign Office works with governments around the world. They talk about trade, climate change, and human rights. They also help to build strong relationships between the UK and other nations. This helps to make the world a safer and more stable place.

The Foreign Secretary's Role

The Foreign Secretary is a very important person in the UK government. They lead the Foreign Office and represent the UK on the world stage.

Key Responsibilities

The Foreign Secretary's main jobs include:

Leading the UK's foreign policy. This means deciding how the UK will act towards other countries.
Representing the UK at international meetings. They meet with leaders from other nations.
Overseeing the work of all British embassies and consulates. These are like small UK offices in other countries.
Advising the Prime Minister on global issues. They help the Prime Minister understand what is happening around the world.

History of the Foreign Office

The Foreign Office has a long history. It was formed by joining two older departments. These were the Foreign Office and the Commonwealth Office.

How it Started

The original Foreign Office was created in 1782. Its job was to handle relations with foreign countries. The Commonwealth Office looked after countries that were part of the Commonwealth. In 1968, these two departments joined together. This created the Foreign and Commonwealth Office we know today.

Important Moments

Throughout its history, the Foreign Office has been involved in many big events. It played a role in major wars and peace talks. It also helped to shape how the UK works with countries around the world. The building itself has seen many important decisions made within its walls.

The Main Building

The main building of the Foreign Office is in Whitehall, London. It is a very grand and historic building.

Architecture and Design

The building was designed by a famous architect named George Gilbert Scott. It was completed in 1868. The style of the building is called Italianate architecture. It has many beautiful rooms and staircases inside.

Inside the Building

The Foreign Office building is not just an office. It is also a place where important meetings happen. World leaders and diplomats visit the building. It is a symbol of the UK's role in global affairs.

Images for kids

The western end of the FCDO Main Building in 1866, facing St James's Park. It was then occupied by the Foreign and India Offices, while the Home and Colonial Offices occupied the Whitehall end.
New UK Diplomatic Posts – April 2013
The FCDO Main Building viewed from Horse Guards Road, with the Statue of Robert Clive and the entrance to the Churchill War Rooms visible
The Muse Staircase