UK spouse visa on hold passport Return Query

[levisworkedupon]

Hi everyone
My query is as my Spouse visa application is put on hold and passport is with UKBA.
1: Can i ask for the passport return if i have to travel abroad?

2: would they cancel my application or will they continue to work on it while i hold my passport and im already abroad for a job ?

3: does anyone know how long is the time period given for submitting the passport back to them for Visa Stamp?
So how much time will i have to come back to my country and get the passport returned?

Regards