SubsonicMortal,
i'm in total agreement with you re using DEfos. i certainly would prefer my fair promotion to the bigger bus.
the couple of dozen f/os after #80 that you mentioned who have met all the requirements will nearly be all expats. this figure was only an estimate as i didn't have the reference at the time.
i stand corrected as the vast majority below #80 will be struggling to even come close. therein lies the problem which may necessitate the services of DEfos.
i only hope gf sees these 'couple of dozens' and utilise them before considering the DEfos. of course they may think along the national intereset and hire the DEfos for such time as is necessary for their nationals to acquire the requirements (should take around 5 to 8 years). just have to wait and see.