Interesting how this element has developed over the years. IFR airways flight in 1972 for my VHF test. Then CAP46 replaced by CAP413. Option not to have a practical test in the1980s to a “how goes it” sign off which definitely resulted in a lowering of standards/quality. Then the reintroduction of the synthetic flight.
I will always remember learning to fly at Carlisle. Blackpool flying club aircraft comes on frequency. Transfers to Newcastle eventually, ending the conversation with “over and out”. Their quality of R/T was to say the least interesting.
The present test which is fine for the flying club VFR operations, but little to do with CPL/IR training, line flying R/T for the MCC onwards.
Development of airspace, GPS etc all needs to be taken into account.