§ 11. Mr. Scott-Hopkinsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied that the police authorities are the proper body to interview and examine applicants for naturalisation in proficiency in English language; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. George ThomasThe police are asked to interview all applicants for naturalisation in order to report on the applicant's ability to meet the statutory requirements, one of which is sufficient knowledge of the English language. My right hon. Friend does not think it necessary or desirable to set up special machinery to deal with this particular requirement.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsWould the Joint Under-Secretary agree that in some cases this is not the most suitable way of doing it? Is he aware that I have sent to his Department details of an example which occurred in my constituency—a case in which grief was caused owing to the refusal to grant a permit because of lack of proficiency in the English language? Would he consider setting up a team or panel of educational experts to undertake these activities, which would not be very onerous?
§ Mr. ThomasThe hon. Gentleman came to see me about this matter. We have considered his suggestions very carefully. In all doubtful cases, the police give a detailed report of the applicant's knowledge of English, but it is the Home Office which ultimately decides. It is felt that the present system is the best one.