Summary
A British Academy Position Statement
In this statement, launched on 9 February 2011, the Academy argues that languages matter at all levels – from primary to post-doctoral – in research, business and society.
Highlighting that the UK is in danger of becoming a nation of monoglots in a world of polyglots, the Academy argues that the UK’s research base in languages, linguistics, translation and other language-related areas is internationally competitive and we must strive not to lose that edge – and instead to widen its scope.
Outlining the value of languages, the statement calls for universities to take a leading role in addressing the growing mismatch between supply and demand.
Speakers at the 9 February 2011 launch event:
Rt Hon David Willetts MP, Minister of State for Universities and Science
Baroness Jean Coussins, Chair, All Party Parliamentary Group for Modern Languages
Professor Nigel Vincent, Vice-President, British Academy
Professor Michael Worton, Vice-Provost, UCL
David Docherty, Chief Executive, Council for Industry and Higher Education