English language requirements: Are A-levels necessary for asylum seekers

The latest idea that all people who come to the UK to work or claim asylum should be able to speak English to A level standard at first glance seems sensible. But what, exactly, does it mean in practice? When students apply from abroad to study at Sussex University, they need to meet a minimum standard in English reading, writing, and speaking to be able to register for their course. We use a standardised test called ILETS (International English Language Testing System). There are different tests intended to assess English usage from basic life skills to ability to communicate as an expert or at an academic level. Had Sir Kier Starmer announced the use of such tests I’d understand, but proficiency to A level standard left me wondering.