Translation doesn't help immigrants learn English

The British government has advised local councils to avoid automatic translations of public information, and instead to put greater focus on learning English. The government claims that widespread translation of everything from street signs to council leaflets means that some immigrants do not learn English. Last year, the BBC claimed that local councils spent £100m on translations.

However, not all immigrants to the UK get free English lessons. The Learning and Skills Council try to provide most assistance in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) to the most disadvantaged groups, such as the unemployed and low paid.

Does the government provide language assistance for people coming to your country?