MP learns Hindi (From Asian Image)

MP learns Hindi

10:16am Monday 30th July 2007

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Brent East MP Sarah Teather is using the parliamentary recess to brush up her language skills.

Sarah, who has already had basic lessons in Gujarati, is taking an intensive two week course in Hindi at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). Spoken Hindi is understood by people from both India and Pakistan.

Brent is one of the most ethnically diverse areas in the country, with 55% of residents at the last census registering as being from black and ethnic minority backgrounds.

Local Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East Sarah Teather said, "Brent's diversity is one of the best things about living here. I am so proud to be part of such an exciting and unique community.

"It's important that an MP is able to represent and communicate effectively with every single one of their constituents. Lots of people aren't confident about speaking English.

"If you can speak a little of their language often they will try some of yours in return, which makes it much easier to communicate.

"I don't ever expect to be fluent in Hindi, but having a few words and phrases helps me to break down some of the barriers and better understand the people I represent."

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