NEW ZEALAND SPEECH.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20243, 1 May 1929, Page 16

NEW ZEALAND SPEECH.

Sir,-May I thank "F.E.W." for having indicated the very real danger to .our English speech which Junes in tbe Amei-i----i'anese "talkie." Although reluctant to add to the difficulties of the picture- exhibitor we feel that measures should bo taken to counteract this new menace to our language. The "talkies will utidoubtedly have an influence on the speech of our young people. Let us then indicate our preference to the exhibitor; he will do his best to supply the entertain men fc required. The Bernard Shaw 1 "talkie is a delight to listen to and should be acquired by the Education Department Indeed the advent of the "talkie" brings a golden opportunity of oblaininK wellspoken lectures on a wide range of subjects suitable for schools and colleges; of establishing a standard of cultured English and, introducing an effective method of imparting knowledge. No doubt -tho Minister of Education has already recognised the educative possibilities of the talking film. We desire Our children to speak pure English and we naturally dislike to have the finger of derision pointed at i>hem. It is ffctile to criticise J outteachers; they are splendid men Snd women, self-disciplined to a severe course of study to qualify for a profession that is comparatively poorly remunerative*Parents, generally, have a x-espect and esteem for them which they richly deserve. Of this I have no possible doubt whatever. Doubting Thomas.