§ 11. Mr. Nick Gibb (Bognor Regis and Littlehampton) (Con)What assessment she has made of the economic effects of second language capability among employees. [143329]
§ Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Mr. Gerry Sutcliffe)Although the DTI has not commissioned any specific research on the issue 1188 we continue to monitor the situation—for example, by making a point of asking established inward investors about the issues that concern them.
§ Mr. GibbI am grateful to the Minister for that answer. He may recall that although nowadays most pupils study for a GCSE in a foreign language, only 30 per cent. did so before it was made compulsory in 1991. Given the CBI's concern about a shortage of employees with a second language, does he accept that the Government's decision to end compulsory language study after the age of 14 will have a seriously damaging effect on Britain's economic prospects?
§ Mr. SutcliffeI always listen to what the hon. Gentleman says, because he has taken principled positions on many issues in this House. We are considering the study of second languages in earlier years and working with the Department for Education and Skills. Although such training is not compulsory at key stage 4, we are saying that if people want it, they are entitled to it. The hon. Gentleman will have noted the announcement of the Chancellor's new deal for skills in yesterday's pre-Budget report: that creates opportunities for languages in re-skilling the work force.