Relationship status changed. Can I 'keep' years as dependant

[mjwall]

Hi there,

On behalf of ex partner:

I have come over on Australian WHV for 2 years (March 2003 - March 04).

My partner at the time applied for the HSMP (April 2005 - April 2009), of which I am a dependant.

I would like to stay longer in the UK after my visa expires.

As I do qualify for the HSMP, can I actually apply for it (HSMP) myself (say early 2009 or now?!) and still 'keep the 4 years' I have already 'earned' as a dependent?!

So for example:
4 x Yrs as dependent on ex's HSMP visa
1 x Yr on my own HSMP visa (if applied in 2009)

Anyone an expert in this area ... I'm sure this case has sprung up before??!

[OFCHARITY]

If you switch from dependent to hsmp your ILR clock is reset. That is the reply I got from HO about a year ago when I asked them a similar question.

[seanjoe]

i have spoken to them in the past 2 months...the reply is still the same, ilr clock goes to zero.