ENGLISH AS THE BUSINESS LANGUAGE OF EUROPE

Early day motion 1908, tabled 27 March 2006 by Keith Vaz (Labour). Signed by 34 members.

That this House welcomes the statement of Ernest-Antoine Seilliere at the Spring European Council that English is now the accepted language of business in Europe; notes that 70 per cent. of 18 to 24 year olds in Europe speak English; further notes that 83 per cent. of high school students in the European Union are learning English; hopes that President Chirac can be present for Mr Seilliere's next presentation on resisting national protectionism in Europe; and calls on the European Union to recognise the predominant position of English in such areas as establishing a European Patent Office.

Signatures by party: Labour 21, Conservative 7, Liberal Democrat 4, DUP 1, UUP 1.