Biometric Passport - just received with the blurb that tells me...?

Question

to protect 'their' Passport from the Heat & Cold as the chip in it can be damaged by these extremes.

This suggest to me that I'd be foolish to go anywhere where this could happen as A) It's THEIR passport (on loan to me) and that B) I have to pay the cost of any damage to it. So C) what is the bloody point of having one?

As an EU member, WE were all told (I distinctly remember being told it) that 'travelling in wouldn't require having a passport.

So, I have been sold TWO Pups then, 'cause I'm told I'll need my passport for travel within the EU.

Anyone else been sold a pup like this?

Answer 1

When people aply for a passport, the implication is that it is always yours. However, this is not, and has never been, the case. The passport has always remained the property of HM Government. It is simply that for most people the issue has never come up - as it remains the property of the government, they have right to revoke and retain your passport.
As to travelling without a passport within the EU, I can't remember whether we were ever categorically sold this but that was definitely the implication. However, the Schengen agreement has been incorporated into the EU and consequently EU citizens (and those with Schengen visas) can travel within the Schengen comunity if you have identification. However, the UK and Ireland has not signed up to this agreement and consequently need your passport.

Answer 2

Your government didn't sign up to the Schengen Agreement, so you still should carry your passport. Blame Mrs T.