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UK Citizenship Test
22 November 2023
Lead MP
Wendy Chamberlain
North East Fife
Lib Dem
Responding Minister
Laura Farris
Tags
ImmigrationWomen & Equalities
Word Count: 3582
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Wendy Chamberlain raised concerns about uk citizenship test in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The hon. Member requested that the Government review their commitment to improve the 'Life in the UK' test as per the House of Lords Justice and Home Affairs Committee report from last year. She also asked for an update on the timetable for the promised review, information about a remote testing pilot, and reassurance regarding Kate's case.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The hon. Member for North East Fife highlighted the case of a constituent, Kate Jeffery, who applied for indefinite leave to remain and sought an exemption from the 'Life in the UK' test due to her severe dyslexia. Her application was initially rejected on the grounds that GP support did not count as evidence of a diagnosis. Despite multiple appeals with supporting documents provided by her MP's office and legal advice, Kate's case has faced repeated delays and refusals. The hon. Member also mentioned accessibility issues for applicants with disabilities, the lack of clear information on available adaptations, and the test's content being more focused on obscure facts rather than aiding integration.
Gregory Campbell
DUP
East Londonderry
Congratulates the hon. Lady for raising issues related to Northern Ireland residents born in the Republic, questioning why these individuals are still required to take the citizenship test despite long-term residency and contributions as taxpayers and voters. Will the Minister undertake, in discussion with colleagues, to ensure that the review that is going to be forthcoming will be wide-ranging and comprehensive, to take account of some of the concerns that have been raised today? Then, hopefully, we can see some improvement for the future.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Commends the hon. Lady for bringing the debate forward, criticising the UK citizenship test as a 'bad pub quiz' and suggesting that questions should focus more on devolved institutions to understand the UK better. The hon. Member highlighted that the 'Life in the UK' test has serious flaws and mentioned accessibility issues for applicants with long-term physical and mental conditions, which can be a barrier to the application process.
Tim Farron
Lib Dem
Westmorland and Lonsdale
Grateful for the hon. Friend's speech, suggests allowing asylum seekers to work to help them integrate better and save taxpayer money, arguing this would improve their chances of passing the citizenship test.
Government Response
Laura Farris
Government Response
It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Sir Christopher. I congratulate the hon. Member for North East Fife on securing the debate and urge her not to conflate individual issues with an indication that the system as a whole is failing. Since 2003, successive Governments have required all those seeking permanent residence in the UK to demonstrate an appropriate level of spoken English and understanding of life in the United Kingdom, including history. Over 1.7 million attempts have been made to pass the test since 2013, with 70% passing it on their first try. Applicants do not need to achieve 100%, and most people pass by the third attempt. The minister explained that those taking the test will already have lived in the UK for at least five years and must demonstrate knowledge of British history, culture, government, and democratic principles. She stated that while she is aware of the House of Lords Committee's report on the test, there are strong views on how a review should be conducted, particularly regarding its scope, who should conduct it, and what consultation should be undertaken. The minister will write to the hon. Member for North East Fife once the scope and timeframe for the review is known.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.