RPS

Background: I (Indian passport) have a 5-year UK visa (C Visitor)
issued in the USA. It states the date of issue , expiration date, and
"duration of stay"=180 days. My understanding of what the consulate
officials told me is that I can enter any time before expiration and
then stay for 180 days. In other words, if the visa expires on Aug 10,
and I enter on Aug 1, I don't have to leave by August 10, but can stay
for 180 days.

However, a family member (who is in India and planning to visit her
daughter who lives in UK and is going to have a baby) is hearing
differently from travel agents. First, they tell her that 1st time
visitors should expect to get a six month visa. Second, the visit not
only has to begin during this period but also conclude. (She wants to
be able to visit to help for a few month and is thinking of applying as
late a spossible, so she has maximum validity to work with.)

This is different from the rules that were explained to me: enter
anytime during validity, then stay up to 180 days.

If you have any expereince or knowledge to share, I shall be most
grateful.