Thanks Terpe and Mike1 for your replies. I have read through the information provided by Terpes and I think I understand the principles but it is certainly not as clearly laid out in the Embassy website. I think I will apply for the visas by going down to the visa office in London so I can explain why I haven't included any fee. We hope to travel on 15th February.

I do have another question that you might be able to help with.

My wife's son is illegitimate and there is no father's name mentioned on the Philippine birth certificate that we are supplying with his visa application. I am assuming therefore that the requirement to have the father's approval to his travel is not needed? Again the notes I could find on the website all say that we need the permission of both biological parents or a court order giving sole custody to his mother. This is not possible in these circumstances.

LV