“Not much. However rather than just complaining about it I would be happy to subscribe to AOPA, PFA (maybe), or GAPAN if somebody would tell me what they are doing to have this daft idea stopped. Anybody got an update?”
OK
The PFA is working hard to get an exemption for permit aircraft. It has had very little success so far, but the BMAA has managed to get some flying machines exempted, so there is some hope. I know AOPA are fighting that it is totally unnecessary, but I am no longer a member so am not up to date.
My personal view is that if you want to fly a CofA aircraft after 2008 you will have to have a Mode S transponder. I think there is a very slight chance the PFA will get an exemption, in UK airspace only, for permit types. You are also quite right in that you will get no benefit from this technology. Mode S sends out a unique serial number. I fear it will not be many years before the fully computerised system will bill you for every flight where you are seen on radar.
Rod1