The widespread problem of functional illiteracy within Canadian labor has been addressed recently by a number of agencies and the press. In times of economic difficulty the outlook is bleak but not hopeless, and the issue must now be kept before the public to encourage effective action. (MSE)

Recent, current, and projected programs in British Columbia to improve vocational English skills in the labor force are described. The programs include preemployment, training, and on-the-job components. Some are for specific industries or union groups. Common elements, successes, and problems are summarized. (MSE)