Citizenship Test Debate

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Department: Home Office

Citizenship Test

Lord Lloyd of Berwick Excerpts
Tuesday 26th February 2013

(11 years, 8 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Taylor of Holbeach Portrait Lord Taylor of Holbeach
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I do not think that it is necessary to tackle just one task at a time. Making this test relevant was an important task. Noble Lords will know that the current handbook has been in use for six years. It was time to have an update and to make it more relevant. The noble Baroness referred to serious issues on the part of UKBA, particularly its ability to cope with appeals. We are well aware of this and I am absolutely certain that the chairman of UKBA has this matter at the top of his agenda.

Lord Lloyd of Berwick Portrait Lord Lloyd of Berwick
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Is the noble Lord aware that those people who have been resident in this country for many years apparently cannot apply to take the new test if they are over 65? Is 65 really too old to become a citizen of the United Kingdom?

Lord Taylor of Holbeach Portrait Lord Taylor of Holbeach
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I was not aware of that fact and, being over 65 myself, I would like to think that I am still in command of all my facilities.