As a former FSO with the CAA, not FCL I hasten to add, I would very gently remind those whose angst has been vented that it is mid-August and despite the vagaries of our UK climate is it the holiday season.
I have no doubt that the number of staff in FCL who deal with licence issue are much reduced at this time.
Professional licences and ratings do take some priority over private since the ability to earn a living is involved.
As to the question of charges. Like that wonderful machiavellian character of a politician on TV was fond of saying - "I hear what you say..... but I could not possibly comment.............!!!!!!!!!!!!!!".
Cheers,
Trapper 69
PS - Just got my monthly CAA pension advice slip today. Usual time too. Thank the Lord they are not on holiday.