Australia plans immigrant tests

By Phil Mercer Bryant
BBC News, Sydney

Australia is planning a radical strengthening of immigration laws that would require prospective citizens to take tough English language tests as well as a quiz on history and culture.

Critics have said the plans are patronising and insulting.

Mr Howard said tests would help create a strong national identity

The government has responded by insisting that it is "common sense" to encourage new citizens to achieve a decent level of English to make sure they contribute to society.

Prime Minister John Howard said the compulsory tests would help to create a "strong and compelling national identity".

A leading Catholic bishop agreed, insisting the changes would foster greater social harmony in a country where one in four people was born overseas.

But not everyone has been so supportive. One critic said the idea "smelled strongly of racism".

Business groups have warned that if it is made harder for migrants to become citizens, then many skilled workers could decide to go elsewhere.

Plans for a citizenship test follow Mr Howard's recent call on all Australian Muslims to learn English and make more of an effort to integrate into society.

The opposition Labour party has said it wants tourists to sign a pledge recognising Australian values such as respect for different religions and democracy before they are allowed into the country.