If they have to demonstrate a certain level of English proficiency as part of the visa application won't this be a way adding migration gatekeeping to the functions these exams already have. Asylum seekers will be able to get here and take the normal route to indefinite leave to remain and then to citizenship if they so wish but partners will (presumably) make these visa applications in their own country so will fall at the first hurdle. It is an excellent way of keeping poor non-europeans out of the UK.
Obviously any very rich people from any country will always be able to find a way round this.
Dominic
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