The Passport Office has denied that it is failing to cope with applications, despite claims of severe delays which are putting holidays at risk
Its chief executive, Paul Pugh, said more than 99pc of 'straightforward applications' were being processed within four weeks.
His comments follow earlier denials by Theresa May and the Home Office of major problems in the system.
Unions have claimed job cuts over the past five years are to blame for long hold-ups.
The Passport Office boss said there had been 'exceptional' summer demand but that extra staff have been brought in to handle applications.
'We are operating seven days a week and our couriers are delivering passports within 24 hours of being produced,' he said.
'We have issued almost three million passports for UK customers in 2014, including over one million issued in the eight weeks since the start of April.
Have you been affected by passport delays? Leave a comment below.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here