How long does Home Office take to return passport?

[celtic555]

Hello,
To turn a very long situation into a short discription - I am an American married to a Brit for 4 years (going on 5). I filed my FLR(M) application late (due to receiving misinformation on when to file). I've been waiting since December 2007 for an answer from the Home Office.

My question is: if I ask for my papers back (including my passport) how long would it take the Home Office to return these documents?

Many thanks!