HC Deb 27 April 1955 vol 540 cc926-7
26. Mr. Awbery

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that the language expert of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation has urged a better system of teaching the English language in Malaya; and, in view of the fact that this is to be the language of the Legislature, whether he will provide greater facilities for the teaching of English as a second language and appoint men with experience in language work to superintend it.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The proposals of the U.N.E.S.C.O. language expert are at present under consideration in Malaya. If the hon. Member is referring in his question to the Federation of Malaya, he is in error in saying that English is to be the language of the Legislature. The Federation of Malaya Agreement states that Malay and English are the official languages of the Federation Legislative Council. English is the official language of the Singapore Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Awbery

Has it not been decided that English is to be the language used in the Legislature? When a Question was asked the other day as to whether there would be a multi-lingual system, the Minister said that he could not agree to it. Owing to the importance of the fact that English is to be the language used in the Legislature, surely we should press for schools and early training of the children to enable them to learn English?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I think the hon. Member has got Malaya and Singapore mixed up. If he will read my answer, he will learn what the correct position is.

Mr. Awbery

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when the Government of the Federation of Malaya are elected in two or three months' time they can themselves determine what language shall be used?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

It has already been agreed that English and Malay are the official languages and are to be the official languages of the forthcoming Federation Council.

Commander Donaldson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that Canada is still a bi-lingual country and people seem to get along very well there?