NZ tightens English test for migrants

The New Zealand government has imposed tougher English language requirements on immigrants.

The immigration minister, Lianne Dalziel, said the move was designed to improve the employability and settlement prospects of immigrants.

She said that when language problems created barriers, it was harder for immigrants to be welcomed by local communities and make a positive contribution to the country.

Correspondents say the move coincides with a growing political debate on immigration in New Zealand.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service