"So that they can integrate and participate fully in our society."
12/16/11, "English tests for immigrant spouses fair, court rules," BBC
"The High Court has dismissed a challenge to laws that require immigrant spouses to be able to speak English in order to live in the UK.
Three couples had challenged the rules which were introduced in November 2010.
But Mr Justice Beatson ruled the new language test was not a disproportionate interference with the couples' right to family life.
The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants said the ruling would affect many UK citizens.
But Immigration Minister Damian Green said: "We believe it is entirely reasonable that someone intending to live in the UK should understand English,
- so that they can integrate and participate fully in our society.
"We are very pleased that the courts agree with us."
The Home Office, which had also cited the costs of translators and interpreters for the NHS and other public services,
- now requires anyone entering the UK to join their spouse to speak a minimum level of English.
Earlier this year the High Court, sitting in Birmingham, was told the tougher language tests were racist and discriminated against British-Indian families.
But in his judgement on Friday, Mr Justice Beatson ruled that the changes did not interfere with the rights of the claimants, "since it does not prevent marriage within the UK where both parties are present, or prevent anyone within the UK from travelling abroad to get married".
He ruled the aims - to promote integration and to protect public services - were "legitimate aims".
Mr Justice Beatson said: "The new rule does not indirectly discriminate on the grounds of nationality, ethnic origins or disability.""
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