Bradford MPs and ethnic minority communities have given a mixed reaction to plans to introduce English language tests for non-European immigrants before they are allowed into Britain to join their partners.

The measure will apply to spouses and unmarried couples already in Britain, as well as overseas applicants.

Under the Government’s new rules to come into force this autumn anyone wishing to immigrate to Britain must show they can speak English at the same level required for skilled workers admitted under the points-based system.

The district’s Conservative MPs say they are behind the tests but Labour MPs have reservations.

Keighley Tory MP Kris Hopkins said: “We’ve got serious structural problems in our education system and the facts are many mums and dads don’t speak English and children are losing out as a consequence.”

Shipley Conservative MP Philip Davies said: “I’m absolutely delighted we’re having stringent English language tests.”

Bradford West Labour MP Marsha Singh said: “To me, fluency in English is the currency of this country. But not to let people come in as a husband or wife and learn English here is a bit harsh.”

Labour colleague and Bradford South MP Gerry Sutcliffe said: “What we must make sure of is that everyone coming into the UK can speak and understand English. We shouldn’t just be targeting specific communities.”

The tests prompted criticism from groups. Liaqat Hussain, of Jamiyat Tabligh-ul-Islam mosque, in Darfield Street, Bradford, said: “It’s going to cause anxiety in our community because people do marry partners from Pakistan.

“It affects our human rights and it’s going to delay or cause problems to some marriages. I’m not against people learning English but if someone’s partner in Pakistan is made to speak English, it’s going to take a long time.” The changes were unfair on immigrants from the Indian sub-continent, he said, because Eastern European immigrants would not face the same rules.

Visa applicants for spouses and unmarried couples must already meet criteria before being allowed to enter the UK. All must show their marriage is genuine and that they can support themselves financially.

Whether people are married in the UK or overseas, the non-UK partner must apply for a two-year settlement visa.

After that, they can apply to the UK Border Agency for indefinite leave to remain. Last year, 38,000 visas for spouses were granted and 21,000 people were granted indefinite leave to remain.

Mashuk Mih, of Bradford’s Bangladesh Community Association, said: “The changes are too tough.”

Bradford East Liberal Democrat MP David Ward was unavailable for comment.