Other parent wanting birth certificate & passports

[ConfusedHusband100]

We didnt really discuss these docs when we split - they just stayed in my house (I kept the family home) plus I was taking the kids away a few times so made sense for passports to stay here.

Got a demanding text saying she wants them. I asked why and after 3 messages had no answer to the question. The passports are more of an issue as I go away with kids in 1 month so paranoid about them getting them back. Seems to be very cryptic and as is the manner, rather than ask nicely just demands.

I am thinking maybe some benefit claim for the birth certs but not sure why she would want passports too as she is not going anywhere till July. There is no overseas family or anything but just a bit suspicious? Overthinking this?

Who do the children reside with?

50/50

Remind Ex that as you are going away with DC in a month you obviously want to hold onto the passports, you can get copy birth certificates so maybe let them go. Lots of things where you claim need passports as photo ID.

Tell them they can buy copies of their birth certificate themselves.

And do not let the passports go if you need them before they do. You won't get them back in time.

Is she trying to get visas or other passports for them?

Not sure what she could be claiming for. Earns over 40k so can’t be any benefits.

can’t see how she would be looking for other passports or visas and they would not qualify for any other citizenship.

I'd give the birth certs as a show of good faith. And you can just get your own copies. For the passports I'd say you can have them in May when we're home.

You can get further copies of birth certificates. As it's 50/50, would you just give them to her, or at the very least offer to pay half of thr cost of getting more? I believe it's a very small fee.
With the passports, could you agree that they remain in the home of whichever of you is taking the children away next?
If I were you, I would do as much as possible to stay on good terms. It will benefit you both, as well as the children of course.