In the UK there is the CPL written exams and there is the ATPL written exams.
How many people do the CPL writtens? - A very small fraction of those doing the ATPLs. Why? because doing the ATPLs is cheaper!
If there was separate IR writtens for SEP, MEP, High Performance/CPL/ATPL, which do you think most people would do and what the costs of doing each would be.
Based on experience, the availability of all but the High Performance/CPL/ATPL would be very limited and the cost would probably be more for the SEP level one.
Much of what is complained about regarding the IR written examinations is rubbish. One could equally argue that there should be more in the exams. I have lost track of how many pilots present them selves for the practical training with the ATPL writtens passed but who can't file an ATC flight plan.
The examinations are not that much of a problem. The theory knowledge requirements are not really different the world over. The FAA system concentrates on CONUS flight and puts the onus on the IR holder to do firther study before operating outside the CONUS - see the appropriate AC.
What really is a problem that could be addressed is the requirement for the theory and practical training for a PPL-IR to be completed at an FTO - a flight school orientated towards professional pilot training in terms of course content, student orientation and practical operations.
Giving appropriately qualified, approved and equipped RTFs the ability to provide approved theory and practical training for PPL's wishing to obtain an IR would be a big step in the right direction. That would remove many of the perceived problems and for PPL training - reduce the cost without reducing the quality.
Regards,
DFC