John Howard's election-year plan to introduce tests for English, culture and history for new migrants was under threat last night after Coalition MPs raised concerns about the scheme.

The proposal, announced by the Prime Minister yesterday, would see the introduction of a citizenship test that requires a working knowledge of the English language, an understanding of the basic aspects of Australian society, "our culture and our values, and certainly some understanding of our history".

The test also calls for prospective citizens to accept responsibility for "defending Australia should the need arise".

Legislation is likely to be introduced after parliament resumes in February to bring in the citizenship test, which Mr Howard said yesterday had strong community support.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20912495-601,00.html