You know how we’re always harping on about how important professional translation is, and how mistakes can lead to embarrassment and loss of reputation? Well, don’t say we didn’t tell you so…

A new example of someone not following our advice has come to light, and it’s a big one. In the Welsh translation of Welsh Labour’s 2011 manifesto, they have even managed to spell their own party’s name wrong! The document was found to be riddled with mistakes in the Welsh-language version, and this error has caused embarrassment for the party.

It isn’t just Labour, either. Both the Liberal Democrats and Plaid Cymru party manifestos contained errors – although Plaid Cymru’s was just an erroneous attribution of a quote. It is surprising that even politicians don’t understand the importance of translation – and their inability to cater for the language of the country they operate in is shocking. Not to mention the lack of respect this shows for the voters they are trying to woo.

A Welsh Labour spokesperson said “”It is probably too late to suggest an all-party commission on proof reading, but it is a lesson learnt.” We sincerely hope they do learn from this mistake, and that others will see this as an example of how not to do things.

To make sure your company (or political party) doesn’t lose face, speak to us for advice and information. Translations from Veritas will win you respect, not lose it.