I think the idea of incorporating IMC training into the PPL is pretty insane and a product of the experience/thinking of someone who has not yet flown enough hours to understand what IMC flying is really about.
You can't just take the hood off when the going gets tough and that includes all manner of turb, icing, possible vertigo etc..
I also agree that blasting off at night with only a NR is not very clever - you need to be competent (and current) on at least basic instrument flying IMHO.