I find this debate amazing. I have been researching the GOM lately and although certainly not an expert, I find the attitude of the US firms incredible. The way cost is driven before safety issues is unbelievable. Pilots making regular transitions over large stretches of water, whether warm not, deserve to fly in twin aircraft. It is obvious that Gomer Pilot has had economics brainwashed into him since a nipper and will take the stance of profit before people first. The North Sea guys, although flying in a more extreme enviroment most of the year woudn't do the majority of the work in singles. The difference is, is that the management and clients wouldn't expect them to do it either ! This is one example of the CAA being a superior body to the FAA.