Just rang passport office again – adviser said the following – useful if others have similar experience
My application and photo got flagged by auto imager but nothing major and that it has been appointed an examiner rather than sitting in a queue waiting to be appointed. She seemed to think this might help quicken the process as the appointment can be a lengthy stage – she therefore suggested it might not be a 5 week wait for me…
Never sure whether they are just making you less anxious or telling you the truth – as I still have no text/email saying in process/approved although I know it was appointed an examiner earlier today.
Any similar experiences?