hsmp and ILR

[minny]

What is the total period of break one is allowed outside the UK while on hsmp? And how many months at a strech? (so that my ILR is not affected)

If i return to UK after 5 months (family reasons) will there be a problem at the immigration. I would still be employed. I am just going on a long holiday.

Thanks

Minny

[herts]

I think you can go for 3 months at one time. And 6 months in all in 4 years, thats what they said when I came in 2004.
But HO bends the rules many times. For example, HO says apply for flr 4-6 weeks before your visa expires, but they also extend the visa 6 months in advance, so what say...

[minny]

thanks