Buzzbox, regards recency, I don’t see there are any recency requirements around here, apart from landing and LWMO, which are satisfied in the sim anyway
Landing recency CAN be revalidated in the sim, by way of an exemption to the AN(HK)O. However, CAD takes a dim view of operators that use the exemption as a way of regularly keeping large numbers of pilots in recency, much to the chagrin of one particular HK airline (and I don't mean CX).
As for the ‘star chamber’, how does the TRNG Manager who signed-off on the candidate as reaching the required level for command, maintain his dignity when the panel tells him (on numerous occasions)… no, you got it wrong he’s not good enough – what an absurd and incredible insult.
Simple - these days the command trainee doesn't get 'signed off' until after the star chamber has completed its review. (I'm not saying I agee with the system mind you...)