To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what (a) funds from his Department and (b) Regimental funds are available for spouses of retired Gurkha soldiers resident in the UK to learn English; and if he will make a statement. (130829)

The families of Gurkha soldiers benefit, whilst serving, from extensive welfare support services, including language and interpretation assistance where practicable, to help them integrate into UK society. Retired Gurkhas who have registered for the Enhanced Learning Credit (ELC) Scheme, in common with all discharged service personnel, may draw upon it for up to 10 years post discharge. The ELC scheme assists serving and retired soldiers to follow a course of study with an accredited provider, which leads to a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 3.