UK-Marriage-Immigration
The British government announced Wednesday that the age at which someone can apply for a marriage visa will increase from 18 to 21 as part of a crackdown on forced marriage.

The new law, which also includes asking spouses to enter into an agreement to learn English before coming to Britain, applies to only foreigners who need a visa to enter the UK.

Powers are also being introduced to revoke leave to remain in Britain where there is evidence that the marriage route has been abused.

Other changes include a requirement by all sponsors to register their intention to marry overseas before they leave the UK. A code of practice is also being established for specialist teams to identify vulnerable people at risk of forced marriage.

Announcing the plans, Home Secretary Jacqui Smith warned that forced marriages lead to 'victims suffering years of physical and mental abuse and -- in extreme cases -- unlawful imprisonment and rape'.

"It has no place in our society. That is why the Government is determined to do everything it can to stamp it out and to ensure that victims receive the help and support they need," Smith said.

"That is why we are raising the age limit for visas, checking anyone entering into a marriage does so of their own free will, and demanding that those coming to the UK learn English," she added.

Government statistics were said to show that 30 percent of the cases dealt with by the government's Forced Marriage Unit involved victims aged between 18 and 21.

The tough rules will mean that anyone abusing the marriage visa system will be removed from the UK under a new power to revoke people's right to stay in the country.