Goldsmith: Reform needed to clarify citizenship

Better clarity about what it means to be a British citizen is needed to improve social cohesion, Lord Goldsmith says.

The former attorney general's five-month review of the issue published today suggests a series of measures it believes will promote citizenship in Britain.

He expresses surprise that "historically" UK citizenship does not have a strong connection with community membership or a commitment to the country.

"In effect, the history of legislation on citizenship and nationality has led to a complex scheme lacking coherence or any clear and self-contained statement of the rights and responsibilities of citizens," he said.

"My report discusses measures to address that and makes a range of proposals that touch every stage of an individual's life.

"My recommendations are intended to promote the meaning and significance of citizenship within modern Britain."