§ 5. Mr. Elystan Morganasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will give an assurance with regard to the translation and publication of official forms in the Welsh language that the criteria of demand for, and cost of, such forms will not be allowed to dominate the decision but that the question of preserving the Welsh language will also be considered in each instance.
§ Mr. Cledwyn HughesIt is the policy of the Government to preserve the Welsh language. The principle of equal validity has been accepted, and in considering the publication of forms in Welsh due regard will be given to the policy of preserving the language as well as the criteria referred to by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. MorganI thank my right hon. Friend for that encouraging reply, but 631 does he not agree that the condition of the Welsh language at the moment is such that its survival and its resuscitation can only be brought about by the most dedicated and determined effort at all levels, including that of the central Government?
§ Mr. HughesI agree with my hon. Friend, and I think that he will agree that the Government are taking a more forthcoming and progressive attitude towards this than any previous Government.