I think he was referring to me Oscar!
Panther88's implication was that writing ability has nothing to do with spoken ability. That may be true in some cases, but it does reflect an overall confidence in using a language that is required for reading and understanding systems and Company SOP's. Basic proficiency results in having to speak so much slower than normal, be very clear and direct, not use slang, hints, humour or any other subtle forms of communication.
With Oscar's somewhat confused reply, I rest my case.
Harry
It might be worth noting that the recent influx of Spanish F/O's within the last 18-24 months has resulted in a severe curtailing of further recruitment from that part of the World, simply due to poor English.