9 December 2003
A consultation has shown strong support for the idea of welcoming new Britons into local communities with a new ceremony when they receive their citizenship.
It also showed strong backing for the Government’s intention that national symbols like the union flag and national anthem should feature in the new ceremonies, alongside local symbols where appropriate.
The ceremonies will be a requirement for everyone who applies on or after 1 January. The first of the ceremonies will take place in the eight pilot areas of Brent, Wandsworth, Liverpool, Glasgow, Cardiff, Kent, Oldham and Telford and Wrekin in the New Year. They will then be rolled out across the country.
To qualify for citizenship, applicants must have lived in the UK for five years or three years if married to a British citizen. Last year 120,145 people were granted citizenship. New citizens will continue to swear allegiance to the Queen but will also make a new pledge to uphold the UK’s rights, freedoms and democratic values.
Responses to the consultation made suggestions for music which could be played alongside the national anthem, and welcomed the idea of local dignitaries attending. Local authorities will be free to choose appropriate music and invite dignitaries. People also agreed with the proposed format of the welcome speech and suggested adding details about the cultures and traditions of the local area.
Home Office Minister Beverley Hughes said:
"Becoming a UK citizen is an important step and we want to welcome new citizens with the right balance of solemnity and celebration to make it a significant day for all involved. The ceremony will reinforce the obligations as well as the rights of being a citizen."
She also said that the Government is considering the recommendations of an independent group on how to ensure that new citizens have knowledge of English and life in the UK.
"Helping people to become full and active citizens is a vital part of our managed migration policy, which benefits both our society and economy."
The fees for applying for citizenship will increase for the first time in eight years to cover the costs of processing applications, providing the new ceremony and ensuring local authorities are not left out of pocket.
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