Your view: Revised citizenship test is to be introduced

By Jim Taylor
Newsbeat reporter in Ipswich

The citizenship test taken by foreign migrants who want to settle in the UK is getting a shake-up.

From March, a new version will focus more on Britain's history and culture, instead of practical situations like catching a train and working out the benefits system.

The 45-minute test was first introduced in 2005 and most people who want to move to the UK from countries outside the EU have to pass it.

Critics say the new version is more like the entry exam for a public school, but the government says it celebrates what makes Britain great.

Here are some questions on the new test - and how people in Ipswich got on with them.

Take the revised citizenship test yourself

1. Which landmark is a prehistoric monument which still stands in the English county of Wiltshire?

A) Stonehenge

B) Hadrian's Wall

C) Offa's Dyke

D) Fountains Abbey

Kofi Hlordzi, 18, from Manchester scored two out of five.

"I don't think it's fair because I don't know them and I've been living in the UK all my life," he said.

"I get what they're trying to do but there's no way a lot of people would know those questions."

2. Who is the Patron Saint of Scotland?

A) St David

B) St Andrew

C) St George

D) St Patrick

Amy Chan, 20, from China scored one out of five.

Amy is studying in Ipswich but wouldn't have to take the test unless she wanted to live here permanently.

"It is fair," she said. "Some people are interested in UK news and UK history, but I always see the Chinese news.

"It makes me want to learn more, now I realise how rubbish I am."

3) At her Jubilee in 2012, how many years as Queen did Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II celebrate?

A) 25

B) 40

C) 50

D) 60

Chris Gowing, 38, from Ipswich scored two out of five.

"They're quite hard actually," he said. "The older the person, the more interested in all this they might be.

"I think these are quite hard for people not from this country - they should be asked easier questions."

4. From what age can you be asked to serve on a jury?

A) 16

B) 18

C) 21

D) 25

Ryan Hughes, 23, from Newmarket got three out five.

Ryan wasn't confident going in and took a few guesses but got a decent score.

"Even though I only got three myself, I do think it's a fair test," he said.

5. What is the title given to the person who chairs the debates in the House of Commons?

A) The Speaker

B) The Chairman

C) The Leader of the House

D) The Prime Minister

ANSWERS

1. A) Stonehenge

2. B) St Andrew

3. D) 60

4. B) 18

5. A) The Speaker