Written question asked by Jim Cunningham (Labour) on Thursday, 19 December 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 7 January 2003. It was answered by Stephen Twigg (Labour) on Tuesday, 7 January 2003 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Dept for Education and Skills

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, what range of languages are included within the Government's plans to make foreign language learning standard in primary education.

Answer: Mr. Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what range of languages are included within the Government's plans to make foreign language learning standard in primary education. [88998] Mr. Stephen Twigg: The entitlement for all pupils to study languages at Key Stage 2 must include one of the working languages of the European Union. It will be for schools to decide which European Union language is chosen. Over and above that, it is for schools to decide which and how many languages they choose to offer. Schools may decide for example to offer one main language, or one or two main languages and additional 'taster' sessions in other languages. In addition, by drawing in foreign language speakers, such as parents, those in the community and in business, schools will be in a position to offer and promote a much wider range of languages than has been possible before.

Secondary information