I really think Gonzo's post should be the end of this and that this thread is past its 'sell-by-date'. Whether we 'professional' pilots are 'embarrassed' by/'bollocked' for/'outraged' by ATC 'responses' to our declarations is immaterial. ATC have their rules just as we do.
I have had a full blue-light situation for a minor aircraft event that turned out to be a 'non' event which yes, was 'embarrassing' and resulted in coffee no biscuits because the press got hold of it, but there it is, boys and girls. That is life and we have to learn to live with it and not rant at each other about it. Better safe than sorry?