HSMP-Wk Permit period spent under HSMP counted towards ILR?

[push]

I might come across as naive but can someone clarify on these very basic queries please:

(1) If someone switches from HSMP (granted after Dec 2006 changes) to Work Permit, will the period spent under HSMP be counted towards fulfilling 5 year requirement?

(2) Someone who is on HSMP since say Jan 2007, when does he need to apply for extension under PBS- immediately or around the time when the initial leave expires?

If these questions have been addressed under some other thread, please direct me to it.

regards,

push_hsmp

[hsmpinuk70]

I might come across as naive but can someone clarify on these very basic queries please:

(1) If someone switches from HSMP (granted after Dec 2006 changes) to Work Permit, will the period spent under HSMP be counted towards fulfilling 5 year requirement?

The current immigration rules state that:
Indefinite leave to remain may be granted on application to a person provided he has spent a continuous period of 5 years lawfully in the UK, of which the most recent period must have been spent with leave as a work permit holder (under paragraphs 128 to 133 of these rules), and the remainder must be made up of leave as a work permit holder or leave as a highly skilled migrant (under paragraphs 135A to 135F of these rules);

(2) Someone who is on HSMP since say Jan 2007, when does he need to apply for extension under PBS- immediately or around the time when the initial leave expires?

As per BIA website - If you are already in the United Kingdom under the HSMP, you should transfer into Tier 1 (General) of the points-based system when your initial permission to work in the United Kingdom ends.

regards

[push]

Thanks hsmpinuk70