Visa application requiring 6 month validity of UK passport

Hi,

I am looking to travel to China in mid March 2012. I currently have a passport with around 8 months left on it, but it will be less than 6 months by the time of travel. Is it acceptable to apply for a Visa in the next few weeks whilst I still have more than 6 months on it and travel to China with less than 6 months remaining in March?