"Those who control history control the present, and those who control the present control history", wrote George Orwell.

Whilst we may not consider ourselves to be "at war with Eurasia" (as in Orwell's 1984), our politicians do nevertheless display an appetite for teaching a history that promotes their world view by reinforcing, or entrenching, a particular narrative.

In February 2007 the Telegraph reported, with some alarm, that the Germans want EU history lessons. "A common history book", said an anonymous German, "could contribute to a common European identity".

Back at home the Winter 2007 edition of the Fabian Magazine contained an article by Labour MP for Wrexham, Ian Lucas, who argued that the regions of England should have their own school curriculum for history because "Regions, particularly those with a strong cultural identity, have their own stories to tell".

On the other side of the House the Conservative MP for Romford, Andrew Rosindell, had other ideas. Rosindell introduced a private members' bill to make the teaching of British History compulsory in English schools (the bill will have its 2nd reading on 19 Oct 2009). British history had, Rosindell said, been "shamefully neglected".

Should there be greater emphasis on the teaching of history in England's schools, and if so which narratives are the most important? [Tick all that apply]