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Local Government: Translation Services

Asked by Sir James CleverlyConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 16 April 2026UIN 124632

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the 2013 Written Ministerial Statement advising local authorities against translating into foreign languages remains his department’s policy.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh

We are clear that the ability to use and understand our shared language should be a fundamental basis for participating in society and an expectation of those who wish to call the UK home.

To support this, we are reviewing English language provision to identify best practice, and explore how innovation, including digital delivery, can increase the number of people able to speak English.

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