2Donkeys said "Certain of Thames Radar's controllers are also of the view that since they are not a LARS unit, they should not provide services to aircraft outside controlled airspace. For them this means that their priorities are Biggin Hill IFR in and out-bounds and City Airport traffic."
Have to agree with that, and further, those 'certain' controllers appear not to want to issue city zone crossing clearances to light aircraft in general, regardless of work load. The last time I requested a city zone crossing, there was one Bae 146 flying circuits, I was told to remain clear. I routed round to the East and was north of Biggin Hill before the 146 had even closed the localiser...hardly a conflict. However the rest of the Thames controllers are excellent, if the WX is getting bad the service the service given increases in proportion