31/07/2026
Language should unite us, not divide us.
Recently, I had an interesting conversation with a constituent who felt they had been treated unfairly after being asked to demonstrate English language proficiency for a professional role in the UK. They believed this was discriminatory, particularly because English is not formally designated as England’s official language in legislation.
Employers are not asking someone to prove where they come from or what culture they belong to. They are asking whether they can communicate effectively with colleagues, customers, patients or the public, understand policies and procedures, work safely where appropriate, and carry out the responsibilities of the role. These requirements are about competence and effective communication, not nationality or ethnicity.
United Kingdom is one of the most diverse and multicultural countries in the world, and I believe that is something we should celebrate. Every culture, every tradition and every language adds to the richness of our communities.
However, successful multiculturalism also depends on having a common language that allows people from every background to communicate with one another. Whether English is formally recognised in law as England’s official language does not change the practical reality that it is the language used across education, public services, business, healthcare and everyday life.
As someone who speaks 6 languages, including four Indian languages, I have never believed that learning English means losing your own identity. I continue to speak my native languages with pride because they connect me to my family, my heritage and my culture. Learning English simply gave me another way to communicate, contribute and belong in the country I now call home.
In my view, we should encourage two things equally:
✅ Preserve your mother tongue.
Your language is part of your identity and should be passed on to future generations.
✅ Learn English.
Not because you have to abandon your culture, but because it opens doors to education, employment, friendships, civic participation and a stronger sense of belonging.
Integration is not about becoming less of who you are. It is about becoming part of something bigger while remaining proud of where you came from. We should never ask people to choose between their heritage and their future. We can have both.
Keep your roots. Learn the common language. Build your future. I believe that is how we build stronger communities, improve social cohesion and create opportunities for everyone.
