Call to test migrants on their ability to integrate

New Zealand First is calling for the Government to follow Australia's lead and introduce "integration testing" for new would-be migrants.

The Australian government yesterday announced that migrants seeking to live permanently in Australia would be assessed on their capacity to integrate into Australia's way of life.

Factors taken into account would include an applicant's adaptability and resourcefulness, their knowledge of Australia, their expectations about living in Australia, their attitude towards learning English and their English language skills.

NZ First deputy leader Peter Brown said New Zealand should tighten its own criteria.

He said immigrants came from a broad range of cultures and there was a need to ensure that they understood and embraced New Zealand's "values, customs and way of life".

"We live in a volatile world and it is essential for New Zealand that new migrants are both willing and able to integrate fully into New Zealand society."

He said there should also be a civics education programme for all new migrants.

- NZPA