Voice: School ceremonies are un-British

Education professionals' union Voice has dismissed Lord Goldsmith's proposals to hold citizenship ceremonies for school-leavers.

Voice, formerly the Professional Association of Teachers, joins other education groups in opposing the measure as a means of redefining Britons' relationship with their country.

General secretary Philip Parkin said: "Citizenship ceremonies – especially if compulsory or 'encouraged' – would be un-British, unenforceable, unworkable and unnecessary.

"They would also discriminate against those who decided not to take part for whatever reason."