§ 18. Sir P. Hannonasked the Minister of Education if he is satisfied that the teaching of modern languages in secondary schools is maintained on the high level consistent with the demands of the export drive of our export trade; and if, in particular, he will encourage special attention to the Spanish and Portuguese languages, in view of the importance of Latin-American trade development.
§ Mr. TomlinsonI have been glad to observe an increasing attention to modern language teaching in secondary schools of all types in recent years. In particular, 1301 the examination figures reveal a marked increase in the number of candidates taking Spanish.
§ Sir P. HannonIn view of the importance of American trade and the export drive, will the right hon. Gentleman do something to encourage the teaching of Spanish in our secondary schools?
§ Mr. TomlinsonI have been attempting, as well as I can, to influence them in this connection, but I would point out that it is not the duty of the Minister of Education to lay down the curricula.
§ Professor SavoryHas the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the application of phonetics to the teaching of modern languages in the University of Belfast, and whether such methods could not be used in England so that the French of English pupils may be understood by Frenchmen, which is so seldom the case at present?
§ Mr. TomlinsonI am sorry, but my attention has not been called to the good things done in Belfast; nor have I been asked to visit it.
§ Professor SavoryCome over then. The right hon. Gentleman will be very welcome.
§ Mr. Kenneth LindsayCould the right hon. Gentleman say what is the extent of modern language teaching in secondary modern and technical secondary schools
§ Mr. TomlinsonNot without notice, but I will try to find out if the hon. Gentleman puts down a Question.