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<p>Ahead of unrestricted international travel returning, HM Passport Office prepared
extensively to serve an unprecedented number of customers, with 9.5 million British
passport applications forecasted throughout 2022.</p><p>These preparations, which
include the recruitment of 500 additional staff since April 2021 and with plans in
place to recruit a further 700 by this summer, have ensured that passport applications
can be processed in higher numbers than ever before. This was demonstrated in March
and April 2022 when HM Passport Office achieved a record monthly high by completing
the processing of approximately two million applications.</p><p>Ministers continue
to meet regularly with officials to monitor performance, and to explore further options
that will help to ensure that people receive their passports in good time.</p>
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