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I have mixed emotions about this thread.
On the one hand, I agree that for practical reasons, a functional knowledge of English is necessary, and should be mandatory for those working with the English speaking public.
On the other hand, the argument just sounds so xenophobic. I think that's because it has been used so often as a way to cover up or excuse prejudice in majority people when speaking of immigrants. The argument seems tainted, even when it's perfectly valid.
Plus as someone whose family is comprised of immigrants of maaaaany nations, I feel for them. I know EXACTLY why they move to this country and I can't fault them for doing whatever they have to do, even if they don't have the skille we would like them to have.
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It may be said with rough accuracy that there are three stages in the life of a strong people. First, it is a small power, and fights small powers. Then it is a great power, and fights great powers. Then it is a great power, and fights small powers, but pretends that they are great powers, in order to rekindle the ashes of its ancient emotion and vanity.-- G.K. Chesterton
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