Not this old chestnut again!
My examiner has asked the CAA whether the minima are advisory or mandatory - the answer was they advisory. We ignored the advisory limits at my last renewal, and I was very happy to do so.
The CAA will tell you they recommend the IMCR as a "get you home rating". I would agree in terms of the standard set by the initial test and the underlying training. However the rating on grant entitles you to fly hard IFR with sector to sector IMC to minima. Thats tough with the basic IMCR training.
DFC - I have no idea what the test standard has to do with what the ANO or the CAA have to say about this issue. You pass your driving test with having never driven on a motorway, but you can do so the day after you pass.
DFC - "The important word I am told is in fact but."
By whom are you told this????
DFC - "The IMC rating will not be round in the long term. Changes in airspace and European licensing"
- who says, or is this just speculation on your part?
Fortunately if it is withdrawn at least existing holders will get grandfather rights to son of IMCR or will they just be given a full PPLIR - I for one will be seeing my MP if not!