Another factor: Recent training I've recieved in recovering from compromised separation told me not to play levels when I don't have a standard, leave that for the TCAS. It would not be the actions of a reasonable controller to have intervened in this situation perhaps, like first aid the first thing you should do is not make the situation worse.
Gee I got through the post without swearing or mentioning Dick, Oh buggar I mentioned him. Oh buggar now I've....
you ge the picture