The Nuffield Languages Inquiry Final Report, Languages: the next generation, published in May 2000, attracted remarkable interest and marked a change in public attitudes towards languages. For the first time, issues relating to languages began to feature prominently in the press. The response from individuals, institutions and organisations was also wide-ranging – and extremely positive. The report is now quoted as an authoritative and ambitious agenda for future policy development and it is clear that there is strong support from many quarters for the Inquiry's proposals. Moreover, the response has not been confined to expressing opinion: much has happened over the past twelve months to bring the Inquiry's vision closer to reality.
 
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland responded early with positive action on a national scale. Wales and Scotland both now have a policy for languages, embracing the issues from their own perspective. A working party in Northern Ireland is looking at the issue of language in the context of human rights.
There has been strong endorsement for the central messages of the Inquiry from language professionals in all sectors, and most of the language associations have used the Inquiry's recommendations as the basis of their strategic and action plans.
One significant consequence of the high profile achieved by the Inquiry is its emerging role as a focus for all language-related issues and a forum for public debate. Many individuals – parents, teachers and head-teachers among them – have welcomed the emergence of a channel of communication to share their experience and broadcast their achievements. They have responded to the Inquiry with enthusiasm and are looking for support and guidance to take some of its messages forward.
Interestingly, the report has been universally well received outside the UK and has resulted in many congratulations and offers of support. The response reveals that the issues addressed by the Inquiry are not unique to the UK but have far-reaching implications internationally.