Andrew Turner, the Island’s MP has expressed concern over loopholes in requirements for immigrants to the UK to be proficient in the English Language. Mr Turner asked Parliamentary Questions to the Immigration Minster, Damian Green MP, on the required level of proficiency in English for immigrants, their spouses and dependants when applying for British Citizenship, leave to remain or asylum.
Mr Green’s response showed that there are strict rules for applicants seeking citizenship or leave to remain in the UK. They must demonstrate they are proficient in English by completing a citizenship test or an English language course as well as demonstrating knowledge of British life. However the response also highlighted loopholes for those not applying to live in the UK in their own right – such as spouses and dependants. Currently there is no requirement for spouses or dependants to pass any English language test. From 29th November spouses and dependants of anybody applying for British citizenship should be able to speak English; however this does not stretch to other forms of immigration status such as leave to remain or asylum.
Mr Turner commented:
“It is concerning that whilst we are introducing stricter measures and require immigrant applicants to be able to speak English, we are not requiring the same standards for those they may bring with them permanently to the UK. Requiring those who want the right to live here to speak English is to help them to integrate into British society better. If we do not insist their dependents should also speak our language we are missing an opportunity for them to do that.”
The Island’s MP also obtained figures on the number of primary school pupils who do not speak English as a first language. The numbers for England as a whole stand at over 500,000 pupils or 16%. The figures disclose very wide regional variations, ranging from 0.9% in Halton and Redcar & Cleveland to 77.8% in the inner London Borough of Tower Hamlets. The Isle of Wight has the lowest percentage in the South East with 95 pupils; equating to 1.9% of the pupil population.
Mr Turner said :
“These figures are quite shocking and give a real insight into the issue of language and immigration in schools across the UK. These figures will be of concern to many, especially in places such as London, where over 200,000 or nearly 45% of pupils do not have English as a first language. That must have an effect on native English speakers as their teachers will also have to deal with language difficulties, which often include a very wide spectrum of native tongues. Many of my constituents tell me how their relatives struggle to learn properly where there are large numbers of non-English speaking pupils.
“It is important to note that these figures include those who do not have English as their first language. This does not mean that they cannot speak English; I am asking the Government if they have figures on the exact number of pupils who cannot speak English proficiently.”
Parliamentary Questions tabled by Mr Turner
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm101109/text/101109w0001.htm#10110949000463
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm101109/text/101109w0005.htm#10110976001094
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