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Written question asked by Lord Pearson of Rannoch (UK Independence Party) on Thursday, 27 November 2014, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 December 2014. It was answered by Lord Bates (Conservative) on Monday, 8 December 2014 on behalf of the Home Office.

Entry Clearances: Imams

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the percentage of those Muslim imams admitted to the United Kingdom who cannot speak English; and what assessment they have made of the content of their teachings.

Answer

There are three routes of entry to the UK for religious workers and ministers of religion. Those coming for longer term roles under Tier 2 of the Points Based System are required to demonstrate that that are proficient in English at level B2 (upper intermediate level) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

No assessment of English language is required for religious workers coming to fill temporary positions under Tier 5 of the Points Based System. Similarly those entering at short term visitors are not required to demonstrate proficiency in English language. We are actively reviewing the Immigration Rules for religious routes of entry including English language requirements.

This Government is committed to preventing the entry into the UK of individuals whose behaviours and views are not conducive to shared values such as democracy, the rule of law and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. Since May 2010, the Home Secretary has excluded 84 preachers of hate. The Home Secretary uses these powers when justified and based on all available evidence. Where appropriate, this may include public statements and written material.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL3209
Session
2014-15
Subjects
Entry clearances English language Imams
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk