Sir, I am surprised by Mr John Twells’s conclusion (letter, December 23) that our children might waste their time by studying another European language.

If language learning were useful only to make a few more sales over the phone, the internet, or during a business lunch, then Mr Twells would be right. However, the benefits of learning a second language lie in the realm of the intangible, those unfashionable realities of life which, annoyingly, remain so difficult to quantify or measure.

Amongst many other benefits, learning other languages extends one’s cultural, historical, and literary knowledge; promotes tolerance through the understanding of different customs; offers greater freedom of movement; and, a very tangible benefit, can substantially extend the geographical scope of one’s job-hunting.

Increasingly, our children will be called upon to work for extended periods of time in other European countries — they may succeed professionally between 9am and 5pm because they master English, but they will struggle after hours to participate in basic conversations with colleagues and friends. British children who study a second language will be well placed to succeed as adults.

Yours faithfully,
SEAN O’CURNEEN,
109 Sternhold Avenue,
SW2 4PF.
December 23.

From Mr Mike Mackenzie

Sir, Much could be said in reply to Anthony Browne’s eulogy of Britain’s renowned linguistic feebleness (Thunderer, December 23), but I restrict myself here to three observations on those of my British friends and acquaintances who have a sound grasp of another language.

First, when abroad, they have learnt to seek understanding where so many Britons content themselves with shrill criticism. Secondly, their written command of English itself generally soars far above the lamentable norms now evident even in “educated” British society. And finally, if ever they wade into the language debate their views avoid uncomfortable comparison with those of the man who says he has never been to the opera because he knows it is a waste of time.

Yours faithfully,
MIKE MACKENZIE,
10 Frankfield Rise,
Tunbridge Wells,
Kent TN2 5LF.
December 23.

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