LONDON, Oct 31: Immigrants who want to become UK citizens will have to show a knowledge of British customs and history if they are to pass new compulsory tests unveiled by the government on Monday.

The 45-minute “Life in the UK” tests, which all applicants must sit from Tuesday, require immigrants to answer 24 multiple questions about British life ranging from knowledge of Queen Elizabeth to regional dialects.

The tests, which cost 34 pounds and can be taken at about 90 centres across the country, come on top of a need for new citizens to demonstrate a working knowledge of English.

“An understanding of the British language and our way of life is vital,” said Immigration minister Tony McNulty.—Reuters