Tony Wright MP today gave his reaction to new Government proposals on citizenship and immigration. 

Tony said: 

"Some people say it’s nasty or racist to talk about immigration - but I think that’s wrong. Immigration affects all British people of all backgrounds who have a legal right to be here and who pay for services through taxation. 

"I think that people in Great Yarmouth want to know that our immigration system is being controlled in a way that works to the benefit of Britain.   

"I think most people are clear about the values we want newcomers to sign up to: speaking English; working hard and paying tax; obeying the law; and getting involved and contributing to the community.

"I believe we should talk openly about these issues, and be calm and sensible about the decisions we take. That’s the British way of approaching problems and I’m determined that we tackle this matter together.   So I look forward to discussing the Government’s proposals with the people of Great Yarmouth and feeding back their views to the Prime Minister, Home Secretary and other Ministers.” 

Details on the Proposals 

Labour published the draft Immigration and Citizenship Bill on Monday 14 July, the biggest shake-up yet of the immigration system. It includes provisions for a radical overhaul of immigration law, and will put Labour’s plans for earned citizenship into statute.

The approach will require all migrants to speak English and obey the law if they want to gain citizenship and stay permanently in Britain, while speeding up the path to citizenship for those who contribute to the community.

The reforms are at the centre of a sweeping overhaul of all immigration laws dating back to 1971 and confirm new modern laws reserving full access to benefits and social housing will be reserved for citizens and permanent residents.

Foreign nationals who commit serious offences will face automatic consideration for deportation – and even minor offences will delay access to citizenship by up to three years.

The draft Bill can be found at: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/immigrationandcitizenshipbill