Language learning can help Britain in Europe, says minister.
The British remain reluctant to learn foreign languages, claims a survey. The Department for Trade and Industry has commissioned a survey of people from other European countries working in Britain to see how they perceived the language skills of their British colleagues. This lack of ability at languages put British businesses at a disadvantage compared to countries such as Germany, the Netherlands and France, said the Trade Minister, Brian Wilson. We cannot assume that everyone speaks English and we constantly put ourselves in a position of weakness by not developing language skills. This was a long-term challenge for the education system, the minister said.