Black Olive
Hi
PPL could take as little as three weeks in the UK, and Pool Avialtion have been highly regarded in this area by colleague. Trouble is its hard to plan in the UK cause you can't tell what the wx is doing next.
Also, if you havn't already, speak to your local flying school. Being at home, and earning a wage will often offset the savings of going to the states. I am also a strong believer in learning in the UK, if you intend to fly in the UK - because of the changeable weather and often complex airspace. (Relevent if you intend hours building in the UK and it can be cost effective if you go the homebuilt route)
If you are aiming purely at a commercial licence. doing the PPL in the US is probably fine, ( and you can plan your time more accurately if you head for the sunny states), because after you've done the CPL- GFT bits over here you WILL be up to speed with UK wx and airspace ! (May take you slightly longer though, and at a more expensive hourly rate for commercial training)
Good Luck
MDS
Ps (drop me an e-mail if you want my more libelous opinions !)