UK's first immigrant citizenship ceremony held in London borough

The UK's first-ever citizenship ceremony is being held in the London borough of Brent today, with Prince of Wales on hand to present certificates and a commemorative medal to the new Britons.

Those who will become British citizens today are all residents of Brent and include people originally from Afghanistan, India, Sri Lanka, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Nepal, Poland, Kenya and Somalia. There will be 16 adults, including several married couples, and three children who are acquiring citizenship together with their parents.

At the ceremony, the new citizens will take the traditional oath of allegiance to the Queen, and make a new pledge to uphold "British democratic values" before the Brent Youth Choir sing the national anthem.

The oath reads: "I, [name], [swear by Almighty God] [do solemnly and truly declare and affirm] that, on becoming a British citizen, I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Her Heirs and Successors according to law."

This is followed by the pledge, which reads: "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."

As part of the wider reforms of the citizenship laws, the government is considering plans for classes in English and citizenship by introducing pilots over the next year to ensure that all new citizens can speak English and understand life in the UK.

The government has said that prospective citizens should show measurable progress in English rather than having to reach a single standard and the citizenship studies should be organised into six main areas: British national institutions in recent historical context; Britain as a diverse society; knowing the law; employment; sources of help and information; and everyday needs.

Home Secretary David Blunkett, who also attended the ceremony, said: "Britain has a great tradition as a tolerant and welcoming nation. I am very pleased to be at the first of many ceremonies which will help to bind together our communities with shared values which allow people to be proud of both their background and their new home."

The Mayor of Brent, Peter Lemmon welcomed the new citizens to the borough, adding: "One of the prime purposes of the ceremony today is to extend a very warm welcome to everyone here who has decided to make their home in Brent. It is also an opportunity to celebrate our cultural diversity."

The citizens and audience will conclude the ceremony by joining in the singing of the national anthem.

(gmcg)