In the previous part we considered why the UK is seemingly able
to exert continued influence on the global stage. Continuing on
this theme, this article will now look at some other less
quantifiable factors which means that the UK continues to be
seen as a nation able to exert influence on the global stage. A
global legacy, and a global presence Although the vast majority
of the British imperial population has now passed on, there is
still a legacy footprint of both those who settled in nations
when they were still imperial possessions, and also those who
were born imperial subjects, but who became independent leaders.
Although very difficult to quantify, the UK is still in a
position where in many nations around the world, diplomatic
relations are held with people who remember the UK as a former
colonial power, and who may have benefited from access to
education or training in the UK. In practical terms this means
little, but in terms of opening doors, or enabling a newly
arrived High Commissioner to talk to