§ Mr. Sheermanasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps his Department is taking to seek to stop the decline in foreign language teaching in British schools.
§ Mrs. RumboldForeign languages are among the subjects proposed for inclusion in the foundation curriculum for all pupils during the compulsory period of secondary schooling. Last year we issued for consultation a draft statement of policy on foreign languages, which was warmly received. It called for action by the education service to promote increased take-up of foreign language study throughout secondary schooling, a wider choice of languages offered, and greater emphasis on communication skills. We intend to issue the final statement shortly.