UK unveils migrant language tests, misspells language
LONDON — Britain’s Home Office was left red-faced yesterday (Jan 22) after unveiling new English tests for migrants — but misspelling the word “language” in its announcement.
Britain's Home Office misspelled the word "language" when it announced a new English language test for migrants. Photo: @SophyRidgeSky/Twitter
LONDON — Britain’s Home Office was left red-faced yesterday (Jan 22) after unveiling new English tests for migrants — but misspelling the word “language” in its announcement.
Prime Minister David Cameron on Monday launched a £20 million (S$41 million) language fund to help women, particularly Muslims, who arrive in Britain after getting married but struggle to speak English.
He also said women from non-EU countries who fail to pass an English language test after two and a half years in the country could face deportation, drawing criticism from Muslim groups and opposition parties.
A Home Office press release giving details of the move Thursday spoke of a “new English langauge test” and had to be corrected.
Asked if Mr Cameron was disappointed by the mistake, his official spokeswoman told reporters: “All of us are open to mistakes at times.
“The prime minister is pretty confident that his team speak English competently.”
The error drew ridicule on Twitter — broadcaster Anita Anand wrote it was “beyond parody”, while user @DaveGoddard 1971 joked: “Makes you proud to be British”. AFP
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