Dean's world - English Only, Please
By Michael Demmons
Now, I'm all about living in a multi-cultural society. I think it's good for everyone, and if nothing else, it's interesting. But I also believe that when people show up on your doorstep without language skills, you're justified in saying, "Well, you can stay for a visit, but you cannot stay permanently." And that's what Great Britain is doing:
U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair plans to allow only people who speak English and have skills that are in demand to settle in Britain, after polls showed the public considers immigration rules to be too weak.
[...]
[The plan] sets out a four- tier system of points for those applying to work in Britain from outside the European Union. People who speak English and have skills in demand will be able to settle in the U.K., while unskilled workers and students won't be allowed to stay permanently.
I think that's right - especially in a system with a social welfare safety net like the UK. In fact, if I was a politician, I'd like to think I wouldn't stick my finger in the air to see which way the polling winds are blowing. The bottom line is that this makes sense, and that's a good enough reason (asylum issues notwithstanding.) People who cannot speak English have a much more difficult time gaining employment. And where do they end up when they can't get a job, afford housing, or buy groceries?
You know the answer. I do. I'm from Canada, after all! |
