While we’re on the topic of foreign language, here’s “three cheers” for Australian PM John Howard. Bold move. Stongly needed. If a nation fails to preserve its identity, it ceases to exist.

If only American politicans could show the same leadership on this front.

Actually, it would merely require going back to the same high standards U.S. immigration once had. Just ask the good people who immigrated from Europe during the 40’s and 50’s, like our grandparents.

Requirements for entry: speak english, have some knowledge of U.S. history, and you even needed a sponsor — y’know, to avoid the proliferation of a welfare state because of too many unassimilated immigrants, creating pockets of poverty and liberals then call “disenfranchised.” Thanks to Kennedy, the policy was changed in the 60s and just look at us now!

AP reports: “Migrants who want to become Australian citizens will have to take English exams and prove their knowledge of local history and customs under new guidelines introduced Monday by Prime Minister John Howard.”

“Would-be citizens and permanent residents will also have to sign a statement saying they understand commonly held Australian values, such as respect for the law, religious and individual freedoms, and the equal rights of men and women.

“It is not designed in any way to keep some people out … but it is designed to ensure that people understand and have a working capacity in the national language, which is English,” he told reporters.
. . .

It follows a recent crackdown on illegal immigrants and concerns that extremist Islamic views may be gaining a foothold in some communities.

Meanwhile, in America…

1. The dutch have something simular. You Seemingly you have to watch a video about what is acceptable in the country i.e. equal rights, religious tolerance, gay marriage, drug use, individual freedoms etc etc. I think Sweden may have the same. (For non-EU citizens in all cases obviously)

   They were going to bring it in Britain and a news show started giving the questions to people on the street that they would ask like who is 6th in line for the throne etc which no one on the street could answer.

   Comment by simon — December 11, 2006 @ 6:16 pm