Tories call for English tests for foreigners marrying in UK

Foreign couples who wish to marry in the UK should undergo an English test to ensure that they can speak the language, according to the Conservative party.

The party believes that this will aid the integration of such people into British society.

Moreover, those who apply for visas so that they can wed in Britain should be interviewed separately and the age for applicants should be raised from 18 to 21. The Conservatives argue that these measures would also help to reduce the number of forced and false marriages.

Damian Green, immigration spokesman for the party, said in a statement: "Too many young women are brought to England to marry when they cannot possibly integrate with our society.

"It is not fair on them and it is not good for their integration into this country. Families where English is not spoken are much more likely to have children who struggle at school, and adults who cannot engage in work."

The current test for British citizenship requires applicants to be able to read and write English.