ENGLISH AS THE BUSINESS LANGUAGE OF EUROPE

Motion Text

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.