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We need a Chief Government Linguist to embed languages policy in government
We need a Chief Government Linguist to embed languages policy in government
| 27/11/2018
Alongside colleagues from the Open World Research Initiative (OWRI), I am calling for the appointment of a Chief Government Linguist at government level in the UK. In a way that is not dissimilar to the Government Chief Scientific Adviser (and the network of departmental CSAs), a Chief Government Linguist would work across departments and provide co-ordination and strategic leadership in embedding languages in policy across a range of areas such as health, international trade, communities. They will be a champion for languages both within and outside government.
This week (Wednesday 28th) I and fellow academics leading the OWRI projects will be in parliament at an event hosted by Stephen Kinnock MP aimed at showcasing the work of the projects and the importance of languages. Stephen has endorsed the call for a Chief Government Linguist, pointing to the skills that come with learning another language and how it contributes to successful trade and diplomacy, peace making and cultural awareness.
We are looking forward to meeting parliamentarians, civil servants and other stakeholders as we continue to demonstrate the value of languages.
See more details on the proposal for a Chief Government Linguist here. Briefing – Chief Government LinguistJKNov27 FINAL
