Slaphead
It doesn't really give a definitive answer to my question. Obviously if you're not sure you're going to check. it does not say whether a clearance above the "final SID level" absolves you from the stepped climb responsibilities.
My personal belief is that you should adhere to the stepped climb, the "higher" clearance only counting on completion of the SID i.e no need to level at 6000', climb to FL100. Probably the safest way to do it.