FTDK is right,
Two years working in Afghanistan with numerous trips home obviously flagged me up for a closer look when I put my renewal pplication in. Notwithstanding the fact that I was already processing AISC applications for others myself.
.
Four months though is bloody outrageous. Unfortunately you will only ever get the standard response - "still with checking partners". Do yourself a favour and keep a copy of your application and evrything else with you when you fly. If you do happen to get pulled up by security they should listen to reason.