Not again! (no disrespect TMs).
The position with regards to IMCR minima is clearly set out in the ANO.
The only possible debate is what is meant by the use of the words either side of recommended - some take the view the higher minima are recommended others that they are mandatory.
There was a very lengthy debate on this forum about this within the last year (use the search function) with both sides of the arguement being put.
At the time I wrote to the CAA and I for one was absolutely satisfied from their response beyond any possible doubt that the CAA consider the recommended higher minima are just that - recommended.
If you are in any doubt the best you can do is write to them for yourself - they are really very helpful, and I suspect have answered this question more than a few times.
That means your CFI is wrong and you might want to suggest to him if he is teaching the IMCR he should also write to the CAA so he can teach the rating correctly!
