INCIDENTALLY: Getting Out Of the UK
Did you hear the story of the journalist who managed to defeat the
migration department of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, or as it is
now called in a trendy logo ”UK Passport Service”?
Our writer”s standard (32 page) size passport was full and you can”t
get a new 48-page version although one is listed in their brochure.
The Indian authorities would not update a previous visa and needed a
perfect page to comply with their regulations.
So it was up to the Passport Office, near Victoria Station, for what
is called ”The Premium Service”. By appointment only at a cost of
”96.50. They don”t allow you in until the approved time either and it
was raining.
Through security and an interview number allotted. And certainly
within 20 minutes a call to the interrogation desk.
”I am very sorry sir but the image is no good!”
”Why?”
”Your mouth is slightly open and there is a reflection in your glasses.
Please see form PLE/04 02.06” (which had not been seen but is in the
latest information pack).
”OK I will go to the photo machine in the lobby and have a retake with
my glasses off.”
”Very sorry sir but you will need to call our reservations and make a
new booking”.
So out to the lobby 50 feet away, a session in the photo machine and
then a quick call.
”Happy to help you sir and we can see you in Belfast tomorrow.”
”But I am off to India on Friday and the Visa still has to be raised.
I am in your Victoria office.”
”Possibly Peterborough on Thursday.”
”The Visa still has to be raised!”
Defeat. No sir. Not for your cunning journalist. The solution was
easy.
Present yourself at Victoria”s front door, apologise for being late,
and follow the procedure.
Mouth closed. Glasses off. Everything in order.
”Please come back in four hours sir the new passport will
be available.”
And four hours later, 2030 on a wet and miserable Victoria evening, it
was ready.
A defeat for bureaucracy and victory for common sense. Just. UK
Passport Services closes at nine.
PS. We asked for comment from the Foreign Office press department.
We are still waiting.