The role of the applied linguist in interpreting research for language teaching policy formation is examined. First, foreign language teaching policy, and the various considerations to be made in determining policy, are defined. Then three aspects of language teaching are discussed: policy developments in the Netherlands in the last few decades, and more specifically the contributions of applied linguists; use of applied linguists in other countries for help in establishing policy; and a Dutch national project to arrive at foreign language teaching policy recommendations. It is concluded that not only has the applied linguist been an important participant in the policy formation process, he is entitled and even obligated to participate. The layman may be capable of translating research findings into policy, but he may not pursue research adequately and may disregard or misrepresent important information if he is not familiar with the field. A 31-item bibliography is included. (MSE)