Large Dave seems to have hit the nail squarely on the head. This announcement has been met with much melodrama, wailing and collective gnashing of teeth, but with most arguements based on speculation, supposition and emotion rather than balanced reasoning. Surely the inclusion of broader RAF training, not flying alone, should open the UASs up to those seriously interested in an RAF career, including the ground branches. The UASs are, indeed, one of the best societies at uni and are oversubscribed. However, is this because the Nation's undergrads are clamouring to serve Queen and Country or could it be that they see it as a ticket to some free flying, lots of cheap booze and a good social? I don't see any problem with separating the wheat from the chaff and attracting those with serious military (not necessarily flying) ambitions and binning the 'passengers'.
Let's try and remember, chaps and chapesses, that the RAF comprises more than aircrew alone and, whilst flying is our Service's primary role, the other branches need high-calibre recruits too. These changes to the UAS structure, shifting the focus from purely flying to more 'personal and leadership development of all potential officers' should produce more balanced individuals and should be welcomed.