HC Deb 11 May 1915 vol 71 cc1466-7
44. Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the possibility of a large extension of the commercial relations between this country and of Russia and the difficulty presented by the almost complete ignorance of the Russian language in this country, he can state what facilities exist for the study of the Russian language; and whether he proposes to take any steps to increase these facilities?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Pease)

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the reply I gave the hon. Member for East Nottingham on the 17th February last. The Board are prepared to pay Grants for the teaching of Russian under their Regulations, but it is for education authorities to take the initiative in establishing classes.

Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

Have these facilities been increased since February last, the date referred in the answer?

Mr. PEASE

The Grants are similar; but I take it that an increase in the Grants would be considered for the teaching of Russian, if there is any demand in the I country for it.

Sir R. COOPER

Is it not a fact that the London County Council have made very extensive arrangements in the County of London for this express purpose?

Sir J. JARDINE

Have not the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge both made adequate arrangements for the teaching of Russian?

Sir J. D. REES

Has the right hon. Gentleman reconsidered the question of bringing Russian within the curriculum of the Oriental School of Languages?

Mr. PEASE

It is really a matter for the institution, and the Board of Education has no control over what subjects are taught in that institution.