Test the nation

What does it mean to be British? Although Norman Tebbit’s infamous ‘cricket test’ was widely discredited 15 years ago, the Home Office has introduced a new test for those applying for British citizenship. The idea is to encourage applicants to embrace the diversity of backgrounds, cultures and faiths that exist in modern Britain. The Government wants applicants to play an active role in British economic and political life, and to have a sense of belonging to the wider community. This goes beyond the long-established need for applicants to show their commitment to the UK through length of residence, and their ‘good character’. In 2004 the bar was raised, requiring proof of competency in English – even for native English speakers such as Americans, Australians and Canadians. On 1 November 2005 the Citizenship Test was introduced. The test lasts 45 minutes and comprises 24 questions based on a specially prepared handbook: Life in the United Kingdom: A Journey to Citizenship. We understand there are no questions on cricket.

For further information on any immigration matters, please contact:

Jennifer Lambe
Tel +44 (0)20 7440 7136
jennifer.lambe@mishcon.com