Lib Dem councillors slam language funding cuts

12.00.00am GMT Wed 14th Feb 2007

The Learning and Skills Council has announced that they are to cut funding for English sessions for many asylum seekers and immigrants over the age of 19. From August, the LSC will change the eligibility criteria of ESOL (English for speakers of other languages), excluding those non-English speakers over 19 who do not claim benefits. Since this announcement there have been further reports that the government could cut unemployment benefits for people who refuse to learn English. Councillor Mark Harris, executive board member with responsibility for benefits, has criticised the government for leaving both the council and older non-English speakers in limbo.

Councillor Mark Harris (Lib Dem, Moortown) said "Whilst it makes sense to ensure that people seeking work have the basic skills necessary to get jobs, including speaking the language. It is ironic that the government is seeking to introduce this change at the same time as education ministers are cutting back on the provision of classes for those without English as a first language.

"What is happening here seems to be the perfect example of un-joined up government. If these changes are going to be introduced then there needs to be free or low cost language training available in a way that's not presently planned. This is why we are calling on Leeds City Council to back a campaign to get the funding re-instated."

Councillor Javaid Akhtar (Lib Dem, Gipton & Harehills) added "ESOL provides a valuable service for non-English speakers across Leeds. It is vital that all newcomers to the city, regardless of age, can speak English if they are to integrate into our communities and find work."

Councillor Kabeer Hussain (Lib Dem Hyde Park & Woodhouse) commented, "To come to a new country is a daunting prospect and ESOL offered a life-line to those who are unable to do even the simplest of tasks without using their native tongue. To take that life-line away would be callous and ill-judged."