Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

English Language Sector

15 April 2021 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Conor Burns Con Bournemouth West

EducationEconomyEmployment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Conor Burns raised concerns about english language sector in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Conor Burns highlighted the importance of the English language sector to his constituency and nationally, noting its 1.4 billion value added and 35,000 jobs.
  • Burns raised concerns about the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sector, including school closures due to travel restrictions.
  • Minister Paul Scully acknowledged the sector's importance and outlined government support measures, including grants and business rates holidays.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Conor Burns Con Bournemouth West

Conor Burns highlighted the importance of the English language sector to his constituency and nationally. He discussed how the sector has been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that many schools have had to close due to travel restrictions despite not being mandated to do so under government regulations. Burns called for financial support measures such as extending business rate relief, exploring visa exemptions, and allowing limited work rights for students. He emphasised the economic and cultural significance of this sector, citing its contribution of £1.4 billion in value added and 35,000 jobs.

Other contributors (2)
  • Michael Tomlinson Con Mid Dorset and North Poole

    Tomlinson agreed with Burns about the importance of English language schools and suggested extending work rights for students to help hospitality businesses struggling post-Brexit.

  • Anthony Mangnall Con Totnes

    Mangnall highlighted the soft power benefits of English language schools, noting their role in attracting international students and promoting British culture abroad.

Government Response

Paul Scully

Minister Paul Scully acknowledged the importance of the English language sector and expressed appreciation for Conor Burns' advocacy. He outlined the extensive financial support provided by the government during the pandemic, including grants, business rates holidays, loans, and guarantees. Scully noted that while English language schools were not mandated to close under regulations, they have been severely affected by travel restrictions. The Minister explained that local authorities have discretion to allocate discretionary funding for businesses impacted by restrictions, including English language schools. He invited Burns to meet to explore further support measures tailored to the sector's needs.

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