Welsh Language

Oral Answers to Questions — Wales – in the House of Commons at 11:30 am on 2 March 2005.

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Photo of Hywel Williams Hywel Williams Shadow PC Spokesperson (Work and Pensions), Shadow PC Spokesperson (Health), Shadow PC Spokesperson (International Development)

I have to confess that I am rather disappointed by that answer. Can the Secretary of State confirm that no legislative changes are required to put into practice the First Minister's intention to bring the Welsh Language Board back into the Welsh Assembly Government and to establish the office of the y dyfarnwr?

Photo of Peter Hain Peter Hain Chair, Modernisation of the House of Commons Committee, The Secretary of State for Wales, Leader of the House of Commons and Lord Privy Seal

I have not received any request for legislative proposals in that respect, although the First Minister has said that he will look for an opportunity, should it arise.

Photo of Mr Llew Smith Mr Llew Smith Labour, Blaenau Gwent

Does the Secretary of State accept that there are better and far more cost-effective ways of supporting the Welsh Language than ploughing more than £100 million each year into a television channel—S4C—that very few people watch? Indeed, the only people who seem to benefit from that £100 million are the well-heeled people running that company.

Photo of Peter Hain Peter Hain Chair, Modernisation of the House of Commons Committee, The Secretary of State for Wales, Leader of the House of Commons and Lord Privy Seal

I do not agree with my hon. Friend, as I believe that S4C has contributed to the rise of Welsh speaking in Wales, which we all welcome. Speaking of the Welsh language in Wales is now stronger than it has been for generations and we would like to see a Welsh language channel continuing to thrive.

Photo of Adam Price Adam Price Spokesperson (Economy and Taxation; Education & Skills; Miner's Compensation; Regeneration; Trade & Industry)

Twelve years after the passing of the Welsh Language Act 1993, and despite the promises of successive Governments, it is still not possible to register births in the Welsh language. Does the Secretary of State believe that parents in Wales should be able to register their children's birth in the language of their choice?

Photo of Peter Hain Peter Hain Chair, Modernisation of the House of Commons Committee, The Secretary of State for Wales, Leader of the House of Commons and Lord Privy Seal

I would certainly be happy to look further into that, but I note that the former Welsh Language Board chairman, Rhodri Williams, said:

"We have not supported calls for a new Welsh Language Act. We believe it's through persuasion that we can get companies to use the language."

I realise that that does not directly address the hon. Gentleman's point, but it should be taken into account in the context of the overall legislative status of the language. [Interruption.]