Legal News

The Prime Minister has announced a £20 million fund to ensure that men and women who come to the UK on spouse visas learn how to speak English.

David Cameron said that figures show around 190,000 women in the Muslim community are unable to speak English and the funding will help prevent social isolation.

“All too often, because of what I would call ‘passive tolerance’, people subscribe to the flawed idea of separate development,” said Mr Cameron.

“It is time to change our approach. We will never truly build one nation unless we are more assertive about our liberal values, more clear about the expectations we place on those who come to live here and build our country together – and more creative and generous in the work we do to break down barriers.

“And this is a challenge that government cannot meet on its own. I do want every part of government to play its part – health visitors, job centres, nurseries, schools – but we all have a shared responsibility to tackle prejudice and bigotry and help integration.”

In the last Parliament, the government introduced new English language requirements to immigration rules, requiring those applying to settle permanently in the UK to be able to speak intermediate English and pass a Life in the UK test, based on British history, culture and values.

New visa rules will mean those coming to the UK on a spouse visa will be expected to become more fluent in English over time – with a new language test for those seeking a visa extension after two-and-a-half years in the UK.

The new rules will not be introduced before October, to allow migrants time to improve their English language skills.

The government says there are no plans to remove migrants who fail to reach the required level – but it would be taken into account in any request to extend visas or apply for permanent residence.

The new English language scheme will reach tens of thousands of the most isolated women – and will be targeted to specific communities based on Louise Casey’s ongoing review into segregation in England.

Classes will take place in homes, schools and community facilities, with travel and childcare costs provided to remove some of the greatest barriers to participation.

The scheme will build on and extend the English language fund run by the Department for Communities and Local Government, which will have provided training to 33,500 adults by March 2016.
Mr Cameron added that issues like gender segregation and discrimination –and the isolation of some women in society – could help lead to a slide towards radicalisation and extremism in some communities.
“Britain has a claim to be the most successful multi-faith, multi-racial democracy on the planet,” said Mr Cameron.
“We got here because we fought and won those long struggles for liberty, equality and mutual tolerance.
“But the job of building a more cohesive country is never complete. With English language and women’s empowerment as our next frontier, I believe we can bring Britain together and build the stronger society that is within reach.”
Duncan Lewis Immigration Solicitors

Duncan Lewis immigration solicitors can advise on a wide range of immigration matters, including spouse visas and the Life in the UK test, as well as the right to work in the UK, illegal entry to the UK, asylum in the UK and asylum appeals.

Duncan Lewis is a successful firm of Legal Aid immigration solicitors – and can advise on business immigration, work visas, visa overstays and student visas.

For expert legal advice on UK immigration law, call Duncan Lewis immigration solicitors on 0333 772 0409.

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