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The Government today strengthened its commitment to integration by announcing that from April 2 next year all those seeking to live in the UK permanently will have to pass English language and knowledge of life in the UK tests before being granted permanent settlement rights.
Introducing mandatory tests for applicants wishing to settle in Britain will bring them into line with the requirements for those seeking British nationality.
It will help maximise their contribution to the economy by increasing their job prospects, assist their integration into local communities and generate a greater understanding of the rights and responsibilities that come with living in Britain.
Immigration Minister Liam Byrne said: "It is essential that migrants wishing to live in the UK permanently recognise that there are responsibilities that go with this. Having a good grasp of English is essential in order for them to play a full role in society and properly integrate into our communities.
"It is a sign of our success that the UK's work in this area has attracted considerable interest in other countries. Australia, for example, has recently launched a public consultation to gather views on the possible introduction of a similar system there."
