Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe has launched a scathing attack on the UK's integration policies following revelations about migrants' English language abilities.
Speaking on GB News, Lowe declared: "I think multiculturalism has failed - there is no doubt about that."
He questioned how migrants could benefit the economy without speaking English.
"The first condition of coming here must be that you speak English. How can you be of any economic benefit to the country if you cannot speak our language?" he said.
Rupert Lowe reacted to the shocking new figures on GB News
GB NEWS
His comments follow new census data revealing almost one million migrants in the UK struggle with English.
The figures, released by the UK Statistics Authority, show a significant language barrier among foreign-born residents.
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Lowe joined Matt Goodwin on GB News
GB NEWS
While most migrants over 16 can speak English, with 51.6 per cent saying it's their main language, a substantial number cannot.
The data, handed to the Conservatives last month, has sparked furious demands for better integration of new arrivals.
The detailed breakdown reveals 794,332 people "cannot speak English well", representing 8.6 per cent of migrants. Even more concerning, 137,876 people - or 1.4 per cent - cannot speak English at all. This language barrier has raised questions about integration policies.Last year, it emerged that 865,299 calls to the Department for Work and Pensions required an interpreter. This prompted Lowe to ask: "If you can't speak English, then how on earth are these people going to ever contribute to our economy or society?"
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp expressed outrage at the figures. "It beggars belief that so many people in the country can't speak English," he said. He called on the government to address the issue urgently, adding: "It shows Labour needs to get a grip on immigration, and fast." The data has intensified political debate about immigration policies. Both major parties have traded blame for migration failures.
Rupert Lowe said learning English should be a requisite for anyone wanting to live in Britain
GB NEWS
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has previously advocated for stricter citizenship requirements.
She suggested immigrants should wait 15 years before applying for British citizenship, rather than the current six.
"A UK passport should be a privilege not an automatic right," Badenoch stated.Meanwhile, a Government spokesperson said they are "working in partnership with local authorities to understand the housing and integration needs of new arrivals."
The Prime Minister has vowed to cut migration by requiring employers to train more home-grown workers.
