Not totally wrong at all - in fact pretty close to the mark.
Like all these things, it depends on the class of airspace involved. Also it is more to do with the separation required between different types of traffic (IFR or VFR).
Class A: VFR flight is not permitted. IFR is but you require an IR. SVFR is possible, but the increase in vis requirements for the basic PPL holder is there to ensure the conditions are suitable for any eventuality - in short, they won't get lost and conflict with the IFR traffic.
Class D: VFR flight permitted with a flight vis (airport vis) of 5km or more - so, no need to worry about the 10km limit. Also it means ATC don't have to separate you from other VFR traffic. Theyy'll pass traffic info, you sort yourself out. Anything less than that however and either a SVFR or IFR clearance needs to be issued. SVFR means you can depart visually (basic PPL has a 3km vis limit on their licence don't forget) -
however, you still need to be separated from all other traffic in some way, shape or form.
Hope this makes it clear as mud
