FLR(M) application-Can I send copy of my Passport only?

[cwoolf]

Hi there,
I have recently taken 6 1/2 months to get my ILR approved by the UKBA by post. Finally getting my passport back, my spouse has to do her FLR(M) which could take 3-6 months to process. Thats a year without my passport which I need for work as I regularly need to travel around Europe for client meetings.

How can I not lose my passport with the FLR(M) application and instead have it verified at some visa office and send in some copy? Is this possible? Especially given they took 6 months to complete my ILR application and I need it for work.

Is there any way for her to apply without me losing my passport again? Also she cant do the application in person as her visa has expired as it was linked to my old visa (expired Oct 2011).
Thanks