05 September 2003
The Refugee Council has endorsed government plans to test immigrants' knowledge of English and UK institutions before awarding them British citizenship.
The charity, which works with asylum seekers, said the proposals published by a working group on September 3 were recognition of the benefits of cultural diversity.
Chief executive Maeve Sherlock said the courses being advocated were a welcome opportunity for people coming to this country.
'Most refugees and asylum seekers are very keen to learn English, but we have long been concerned by the shortage of suitable language courses to meet their needs,' she said. 'We would also hope that the classes reflect the wide variety of backgrounds of those applying for citizenship.'
Sherlock's comments came after the Life in the United Kingdom advisory group, chaired by Professor Bernard Crick of Birkbeck College, London, released its recommendations after an 18-month review.
Its report suggested that all prospective citizens should complete courses in language and citizenship. These would include tests which immigrants would have to pass before being granted British passports.
The courses would only be open to those who already have leave to remain in the country. Failing the tests would not jeopardise applicants' residency.
Topics covered would include national institutions, the legal rights and duties of citizens, how to get a job, sources of advice and information, and how to be a good neighbour.
Crick and his colleagues also say new citizens should celebrate their naturalisation with US-style ceremonies at town halls, hosted by the local mayor.
'To be British means respecting the institutions, values, beliefs and traditions that bind us all together in peace and legal order. It is vital that new citizens are also equipped to be active citizens with a course of practical learning and an understanding of UK society and civic structures,' Crick said.
Home Secretary David Blunkett, who set up the working group, immediately endorsed the recommendations and said he would move quickly to implement them. 'Acquiring English is a
prerequisite to social integration, to further education and employment and to the wellbeing of succeeding generations.'
Blunkett added: 'Citizenship brings responsibilities as well as rights and it is important that new citizens understand and respect the UK culture and its laws.'
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