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Written question asked by Jonathan Davies (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 December 2025. It was answered by Seema Malhotra (Labour) on Friday, 19 December 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.


Mandarin Language: Civil Servants

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what progress her Department has made towards the introduction of a new China Fast Stream.

Answer

I refer the Hon. Member to the statement made to the House by the previous Foreign Secretary on 24 June 2025. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is enhancing the talent pipeline of China experts by creating a specialised China Pathway within the FCDO's Fast Stream programmes. Starting with the 2026 Fast Stream intake, the China Pathway will enable a small number of new entrants to undertake a structured programme of China-focused jobs and training, including in Mandarin Chinese.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
100604
Session
2024-26
Related items
China Audit
Tuesday, 24 June 2025
Parliamentary proceedings
House of Commons
Subjects
Civil servants China Training Mandarin language
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk