If there was a problem with the limits they would be reduced.
Do you really believe that? Have you read the thread about the harmonisation of Flight Time Limitations throughout Europe? A retrograde step that will make the UK FTLs less restrictive, but at the same time introduce some FTLs in countries like Italy that currently have none whatsoever. They have operated without any for some considerable time and they didn't change them. Does that mean there was no problem with them? Or perhaps just that the problem had none come to light yet?
Maybe you don't think that working to CAP371 is a problem, but many pilots do. Why? Just so they can 'improve' their terms and conditions? NO. Because they know how they feel when they are pushed to the limits of the document.....absolutely shattered and that is a flight safety issue.
PP