For what it's worth my UK Passport renewal was recieved at UK passport office on 23rd March. My passport expires 5th May. UK Embassy / consular service in Bangkok said they can do nothing to help me. On pressing them further they reluctantly checked 'their system' and told me that my application has not been processed yet! UK passport office contacted me and said 'do not contact us as we have reduced staff'. If you try to renew your UK passport at this time there is no telling when you will get your new passport...