Chapter
The values and principles of the UK
The Values and Principles of the UK
British society rests on fundamental values shaped by history and tradition, protected through law, customs and shared expectations. There is no place for extremism or intolerance in British life.
The Five Fundamental Principles
The core principles of British life are:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
- Participation in community life
New citizens affirm these principles at a citizenship ceremony by reciting a formal pledge: 'I will give my loyalty to the United Kingdom and respect its rights and freedoms. I will uphold its democratic values. I will observe its laws faithfully and fulfil my duties and obligations as a British citizen.'
Responsibilities of Residents and Citizens
Anyone wishing to settle permanently in the UK is expected to respect and obey the law, respect the rights and opinions of others, treat people fairly, look after themselves and their family, and care for their local area and the environment.
Freedoms Offered by the UK
In return, the UK guarantees freedom of belief and religion, freedom of speech, freedom from unfair discrimination, the right to a fair trial, and the right to participate in electing a government.
Becoming a Permanent Resident
To gain permanent residence or British citizenship, applicants must demonstrate English language ability and a sound knowledge of life in the UK. As of January 2013, this could be satisfied in one of two ways:
- Passing the Life in the UK test – pitched at ESOL Entry Level 3, so no separate English test is required for those on work visas such as Tier 1 or Tier 2.
- Completing an ESOL with Citizenship course – required for those whose English falls below Entry Level 3.
From October 2013, the rules for settlement changed: applicants must both pass the Life in the UK test and provide evidence of speaking and listening skills at B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (equivalent to ESOL Entry Level 3).
Taking the Life in the UK Test
The test contains 24 questions drawn from the entire handbook, with a different set of questions for each sitting. It is normally taken in English, though Welsh and Scottish Gaelic arrangements are available. Tests must be booked online at www.lifeintheuktest.gov.uk and taken at one of approximately 60 registered test centres across the UK. Valid identification and proof of address must be brought on the day. Only certificates from registered centres are accepted by the UK Border Agency.
Key points
- The five fundamental principles of British life are: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance of different faiths and beliefs, and participation in community life.
- New citizens recite a formal pledge at the citizenship ceremony, promising loyalty, respect for rights and freedoms, upholding democratic values, and observing the law.
- Permanent residents are expected to obey the law, respect others' rights and opinions, treat people fairly, and care for their family, local area and environment.
- The UK offers freedom of belief, freedom of speech, freedom from unfair discrimination, the right to a fair trial, and the right to vote in elections.
- From October 2013, settlement applicants must pass the Life in the UK test AND show speaking and listening ability at B1 of the Common European Framework (equivalent to ESOL Entry Level 3).
- Those with English below ESOL Entry Level 3 must take an ESOL with Citizenship course rather than the standard Life in the UK test.
- The Life in the UK test consists of 24 questions based on the whole handbook, with a different set of questions for each candidate at each session.
- The test must be booked online and taken at one of around 60 registered test centres; it is normally in English but can be arranged in Welsh or Scottish Gaelic.
- There is no place for extremism or intolerance in British society; its values are rooted in history and tradition and are protected by law and custom.