I've never been asked if I speak English when sat in the exit row on BA. Yesterday I was in Row 11 and the FA asked me and others in the row if we were happy to operate the doors in an emergency, but didn't really wait for a response before stating that instructions were on the seat back. Although I did begin to nod, to indicate my understanding, lots of people nod and/or smile, even when they haven't got a clue what's going on- frankly I could have spoken no English at all and she wouldn't have known.

As for the Captain on the flight above, his comments seem fair enough to me. At least he was willing to give a detailed explanation.