Hi Fleur33
I'm sorry you haven't been able to get a straight answer from them. I think it is unlikely that it has been held up because of the cuts. You sent the form back in August, and they are dealing with a backlog. All you can do is keep ringing.
Whatever changes are being made will be announced tomorrow, and Steve will report on them in the newsletter. Then, you will be able to see if it is going to affect you.
BIS
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems