The Embassy is incorrect. She may re-enter the UK prior to the expiry date of her FLR(M). Since it is valid for over six months, it conveys
Non-lapsing leave (paragraph 20A)
Non-lapsing leave
20A. Leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom will usually lapse on the holder going to a country or territory outside the common travel area. However, under article 13 of the Immigration (Leave to Enter and Remain) Order 2000 such leave will not lapse where it was given for a period exceeding six months or where it was conferred by means of an entry clearance (other than a visit visa).
However, future ILR applications may be affected:
Chapter 8 - Family members,
Section 1 - Spouses:
4.5. Further guidance
There is no specific requirement in the
Rules that the entire probationary period must be spent in the United Kingdom. For example, where an applicant has spent a limited period outside of the United Kingdom in connection with his employment, this should not count against him. However, if he has spent the majority of the period overseas, there may be reason to doubt that all the requirements of the
Rules have been met. Each case must be judged on its merits, taking into account reasons for travel, length of absences and whether the applicant and sponsor travelled and lived together during the time spent outside the United Kingdom. These factors will need to be considered against the requirements of the
Rules.
As well as the residential requirements for future
Naturalisation applications.
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