ROOF Blog

Results from a citizenship survey has found that 82 per cent of people see their community as cohesive, where individuals from different backgrounds get on well together. Older people were more likely to be satisfied with their local area than younger people – 88 per cent of over-75s, compared with 76 per cent of 16-24 year olds. However, people were less positive that their voices are being heard at a local level with fewer than 40 per cent of respondents feeling able to influence decisions in their local area.

People are to be asked questions about their citizenship, national identity and understanding of English for the first time as part of the national census. In an effort to gain more comprehensive information on immigration, people will also be asked when they entered the UK and their intended length of stay. Other changes include questions about civil partnerships and second residences. The next census is scheduled for 2011.

Under the Borders, Immigration and Citizenship Bill new arrivals into the UK will have to ‘earn’ the right to a passport rather than automatically receive it after five years’ residence. Migrants will need to demonstrate good English skills and a knowledge of life in Britain. People who do no voluntary work will qualify only after eight years and those who become unemployed will be asked to leave. Social benefits including social housing will not be available to migrants who have not completed a probationary citizenship of one-five years.