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Skilled migrants to need better English April 06, 2007

IN AUSTRALIA IMMIGRATION Minister Kevin Andrews has closed a loophole in Australia's skilled migration program that previously granted visas to migrants with neither the English nor skills needed for their chosen trades.

Mr Andrews and Education Minister Julie Bishop chose a public holiday to announce the changes to the skilled migration program today.

The changes include a requirement for applicants to improve their English and undertake work experience in their chosen trade.

The English language threshold requirement for all general skilled migration (GSM) visas will increase and the points test will be changed to benefit applicants with advanced Australian tertiary qualifications, Australian skilled work experience and strong English language skills.

"These important reforms, which take effect from 1 September 2007 will ensure higher standards of English are attained by students coming to Australia to study," Ms Bishop said.

"Students wishing to apply for a GSM visa will now be required to have a stronger understanding of the English language and undertake relevant work experience," Mr Andrews said.

Opposition immigration spoken Tony Burke said,"We can't continue to have highly qualified engineers wwho aren't able to converse at the workplace,ending up driving Sydney cabs."

In London Prince William's friend killed in Iraq April 07, 2007

PRINCE William was "deeply saddened" to learn that one of the female British soldiers killed in Iraq this week was his close friend and colleague, his office said.

Jo Dyer graduated from the elite Sandhurst military academy alongside William in December, in front of his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II.

The army second lieutenant was killed by a roadside bomb attack west of the southern city of Basra, along with three colleagues and a local civilian interpreter.

"Prince William is deeply saddened to hear the tragic news of Jo Dyer's death," the 24-year-old's Clarence House residence said.

"Jo was a close friend of his at Sandhurst and he is very much thinking of her family and friends right now and they will remain in his thoughts and prayers." Prime Minister Tony Blair said the deaths were the "result of a terrorist act".

IN SINGAPORE , H8 ,HOME NEWS - 7 APRIL 2007

More than 40 women ranging in age 20s to 40s were arrested that ended yesterday morning . Chinese nationals are suspected of vice activites . Chinese PRC (People Republic of China) girls: Freelancers who are by far the best dressed and best looking girls you’ll see in the area. Well dressed in low cut tight dresses these ladies will catch you eye right off so you can’t miss them. Prostitution is illegal in Singapore says the law .

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