Nick Clegg announces end to subsidised translation services for migrants
Deputy Prime Minister instructs Passport Office and DVLA to scrap the practice
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Migrants applying for a passport or driving licence will no longer be offered subsidised translation services, Nick Clegg has announced.
The move is designed to encourage them to learn English as “a common language is the glue that binds a society”.
The Deputy Prime Minister disclosed he had instructed Passport Office and the DVLA to scrap the translation service.
“Obtaining a passport and drivers' licence is a privilege and 'rite of passage' in this country,” he said.
“It is only right that someone gaining such rights should be able to speak English to an appropriate standard and I certainly don't think everyone else should pay for them to use an interpreter or translation service if they can't.”
In a speech designed to toughen the Liberal Democrat message on immigration, he called for tougher border controls to thwart illegal entrants, as well as moves to attract bright students from around the world.
He made the case for EU migration, arguing that freedom of movement between EU member states is a “cornerstone of European integration”. He said: “Those who wish to undo it should be careful what they wish for.”
Mr Clegg said: “An open economy, inclusive communities, freedom of movement, yes; freedom to claim, no. Proper controls without loopholes, border checks which count people out and count people in.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments