There is currently understandable anxiety among parents about the health of their children with the well-reported global increase in the transmission of the H1N1 virus, commonly known as ‘swine flu.’ But English Language Teaching (ELT) providers are operating as normal.

The Business Advisory Network for ‘flu, which has been established by the Cabinet Office and the Civil Contingencies Secretariat, gave a briefing to Government departments, agencies and key businesses on Tuesday of this week.

VisitBritain, on behalf of TIER (Tourism Industry Emergency Reaction Group), is conducting a survey for businesses to monitor the impact of swine flu on UK tourism.

English UK members can contribute their observations until 26^th July and the top-line findings will be available at the end of the month. Here is the link http://www.tourismtrade.org.uk/swineflu/

The questionnaire results will be used to inform TIER regarding appropriate messaging and response measures. Anything you say will be treated as confidential.

A new online English language test, Password Intro, will be launched at the British Library on 6 August 2009. English Language Testing (the developers of Password Intro and Password) are looking for some additional language schools to help item pilot questions.

We would like to remind you about the São Paulo Fair – the second event to be organised this year by the English Language Promotions Group (British Council, English UK, UK Trade & Investment and VisitBritain).