UK Main Home- Time in country?

[xray girl]

Hi,
Im applying for my HSMP extension in June. Just wondering if there is a limit to how much time you can spend out of the UK in that initial HSMP year and still be considered for an extension (given that youre meant to make the UK your main home)?
Have been employed for 5 of the months since july.
Since July 05 I have spent around 3 months out of the UK and want to do some more european travel, but dont wish to jeapodise my chances of extension. Im not seeking a UK passport at the end of the extension, so this query is based more on getting the 3 year extension.
Any advice/ideas most welcome!
thanks

[MWazir]

What is the nature of your travel plans?

I had a friend who spent a large part of his first year travelling regularly in Europe and Asia on business related work. He kept all his invitations and letters from employer to prove that it was work related. He got his 3 year extension.

[xray girl]

Hey,
Unfortunatly its just interest-travel (backpacking) and in no way work related! Has anyone else spent large amounts of time overseas and successfully got the 3 year extension?