§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what financial incentives are being offered, as part of the European Year of Languages, to encourage individuals to improve their linguistic skills. [154482]
§ Jacqui Smith[holding answer 19 March 2001]European Year of Languages aims to raise awareness of the benefits of knowing another language, provide information about teaching and learning languages and celebrate other languages and cultures.
No specific financial incentives are being offered as part of the Year. However, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, which is managing the UK's contribution, has produced a broad and inclusive programme of opportunities for people to participate in a wide range of projects and events. It includes a mixture of roadshows, lectures and concerts to raise awareness of the importance of language learning. A number of specific events like "Adult Learners Week" will also be held.