English as the official language...

This article was in today's global company news...

To speak English still makes debate in firms

English has today become the language of the business world. Most French enterprises, which are present on the international stage, have chosen to use English in most of their everyday communications. This is notably the case of (company a) and (company b, my company), which has more than 120,000 employees in about 100 countries. However, HR Managing Director (Mr X, company b) regrets this decision as the use of the English language reinforces the hegemony of the British culture.
France, May 20th 2008

It's interesting that Mr. X's primary concern appears to be about re-enforcing the domination of British culture as opposed to doing what would best facilitate collaboration in a global company. Considering that probably 1/3 of the employees speak English as their native languare and that English is one of the most prevelent 2nd languages globally makes it one of the only viable options. I also find it a bit ironic that the article was published in English rather than French.

Note: As of May 26, 2008, Mr. X has moved on to another position within the company.