The Home Secretary has proposed a series of reforms to British citizenship on Tuesday 2 October. The reforms include tougher English language requirements for people applying for British citizenship and proposals to reform the Life in the UK test to give greater prominence to the British values and principles expected of those wishing to call the UK their permanent home.
The Home Office website states that a public consultation will be brought forward on the Life in the UK test, which is the test an individual is required to take as part of their application for British citizenship or settlement in the UK, and accompanying handbook. The proposals would ensure that the test is more relevant to daily life and culture in the UK.
In addition, the level of language proficiency expected for adults seeking to naturalise as British citizens will be raised.
The Home Office website also states that the Secretary of State has outlined that powers to deprive individuals of their British citizenship will be applied to individuals convicted of the most serious criminal offences, where it is in the public interest. There have been recent high profile cases such as that of Shamaima Begum.