xPinger
You sound surprised at the loss of the FRI. You shouldn't be really. Given the swingeing recent cuts there is little need of FRI, particularly in the RAF. The RAF isn't assimilating ME pilots past their engagement terms so I am not in the least surprised that FRIs will be ditched.
On the subject of PVR and flying pay that you mentioned - now that does sound like a nasty, nasty thing if it's true. That certainly needs following up by experts.