Is there any evidence that this is a criminal matter? It sounds more like a civil penalty, which I presume the Home Office likes because it avoids any requirement for justice.noajthan wrote:See also https://www.gov.uk/becoming-a-british-c ... p-ceremonyFailure to return a BRP to the Home Office following a grant of British citizenship may result in the issuance of a financial penalty
If one is prosecuted for this one will acquire a record.You’ll be fined up to £1,000 if you don’t return your permit in 5 days.
Hardly an auspicious start to life as a British citizen.
In fact, is there any evidence that the Home Office isn't simply lying? I could find a relevant power under the Biometric regulations, but the code of practice implies that the maximum fine is £500!