All chapters
Chapter 1
The values and principles of the UK
Democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance of different faiths, and taking part in community life.
8 practice questions
Fundamental principles of British life
- 1The handbook lists five: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, and participation in community life.
- 2New citizens make a pledge to uphold these values at the citizenship ceremony, alongside an oath or affirmation of allegiance.
- 3The UK is a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarch. The monarch’s powers are limited by law.
Documents that limited royal power
- 1Magna Carta (1215), sealed by King John at Runnymede, was an early limit on the power of the king and set out certain rights.
- 2The Habeas Corpus Act (1679) protects people from being held in prison unlawfully without a court hearing.
- 3The Bill of Rights (1689) confirmed the rights of Parliament and further limited the monarch, including over taxation and a standing army.
Responsibilities of residents
- 1Respect and obey the law. No one is above it — including the government and the police.
- 2Do not discriminate against others on grounds such as sex, race, religion, age, disability or sexual orientation.
- 3Look after yourself and your family, respect the rights of others, and take part in your community where you can.
- 4Forced marriage and female genital mutilation are illegal in the UK.
The Life in the UK Test itself
- 1Most people aged 18 to 64 applying for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) or British citizenship must pass the test.
- 2The English language requirement is separate from this test.
- 3The official test is 24 questions in 45 minutes. You need 18 correct (75%) to pass.