§ 54. Sir HARRY BRITTAINasked the President of the Board of Education whether a viva voce examination in French, or whatever other modern foreign language be taken, is included in the regular pass for the first schools examination; and whether he is satisfied that the students are equipped with a good colloquial knowledge of that language?
§ Lord E. PERCYAn oral test is always provided, though it is not always a compulsory part of the examination in the subject. While there is doubtless room for improvement in the teaching of this, as of other subjects, I am confident that substantial improvement has taken, and is taking, place.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIs the Noble Lord satisfied that the children of this country receive the same opportunities in this direction as the children of practically every other country on the Continent?
§ Lord E. PERCYIn educational matters I am satisfied with nothing.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINI am referring to a colloquial knowledge of foreign tongues, which are taught in all the countries abroad. Are the children of this country getting similar opportunities?
§ Lord E. PERCYMay I repeat that I am satisfied with nothing in educational affairs.