Tory MP calls for integration policy to encourage migrants to ’embrace British values’

Andrew Rosindell told MPs that ‘immigration is only successful when integration is successful’.
Andrew Rosindell told MPs that ‘immigration is only successful when integration is successful’ (David Woolfall/PA)
PA Media
Rhiannon James7 March 2024
WEST END FINAL

Get our award-winning daily news email featuring exclusive stories, opinion and expert analysis

I would like to be emailed about offers, event and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice.

A Conservative MP has called for a coherent UK integration policy, with immigrants “encouraged to learn English, become part of UK communities, and embrace British values”.

Andrew Rosindell told MPs that “immigration is only successful when integration is successful”.

Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt said the Home Office is looking at whether “a more robust and more proactive stance towards citizenship” is needed.

Speaking during Commons business questions, the Romford MP said: “I welcome the Prime Minister’s remarks outside number 10 Downing Street last week when he said that it’s not enough to live side by side, we must live together united by a shared commitment to this country.

“He’s right, immigration is only successful when integration is successful. So, in light of that, will the Leader of the House agree to a debate, on the floor of the House, concerning a new proactive integration strategy?

I welcome the Prime Minister's remarks... when he said that it's not enough to live side by side, we must live together united by a shared commitment to this country

Andrew Rosindell

“Ensuring that those who come to Britain are encouraged to learn English, become part of UK communities, and embrace British values. Does she agree that we need a coherent UK integration policy?”

Ms Mordaunt said the Home Office has done work in this area, adding: “There have been previous initiatives by other departments such as the Department for Levelling Up in terms of providing language classes and so forth.

“I think also the Home Office have been focused on those that have leave to remain here and choose to make their home here, but are not citizens of this country.

“And looking at actually whether we need a more robust and more proactive stance towards citizenship and all the things that it brings, and all the things that it means to us.”

Create a FREE account to continue reading

eros

Registration is a free and easy way to support our journalism.

Join our community where you can: comment on stories; sign up to newsletters; enter competitions and access content on our app.

Your email address

Must be at least 6 characters, include an upper and lower case character and a number

You must be at least 18 years old to create an account

* Required fields

Already have an account? SIGN IN

By clicking Create Account you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use , Cookie policy and Privacy policy .

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in