This paper deals with the integrative function of sign language in the British deaf community. Sign language communities exhibit a special case of diglossia in that they exist within a larger, hearing community not necessarily characterized by diglossia itself. British Sign Language includes at least two diglossic varieties, with different integrative functions in relation to the deaf and hearing communities. These varieties, "High" and "Low" (H and L), show a functional distribution parallel to that found in other diglossic communities, and reflect different integrative roles. An analysis of negatives and questions shows that this difference is reflected in the different structures of the two varieties. L's integrative function in the deaf community is reflected in its exploitation of the visual medium, while H's lack of integrative function for either the hearing or the deaf community is reflected in its compromise structure, involving use but not exploitation of the visual medium. (Author/AM)