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As You Like It

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The Future of the English Language

This work examines the implications of current trends in the English Language for policy agendas. Run in association with Cambridge Assessment, and ESOL Examinations at the University of Cambridge, it will identify not only areas in which policy makers will have to change to meet the challenges posed by the emergence of variants of English - Englishes - but also how government and others can work with providers to take advantage of the many opportunites that 'Englishes' present...

Our language is a vital tool in international relations and a vital part of Britain’s economic success.  However, recent research – in particular by the British Council - shows that the position of English as the world’s language is no longer so secure as it was.  As we recognise the importance of India and China as global powers, their attitudes and approaches to the English Language will be paramount.  Will English remain the language of science as China grows as a science superpower?  When Jacques Chirac can leave an EU summit because a French businessman chose to use the English tongue, will the business language of the future be English?  To what extent do the new ways in which other countries use and shape English erode the influence of the UK’s position at the centre of the English language?