I hope you're right!I beg to differ from the opinion that background checks is the reason which results the huge difference between processing of UK/EU citizens v/s other applicants as majority of the background and security clearances start at or after medical request stage. There are few non UK/EU applicants in Middle East who get move from Document Submission to Medical request in < 45 days, but SEVERAL of UK/EU applicants.
Chintu
I thought that background check starts earlier and once it's close to completion you get medical request!
Gregor