Well Id rather fly on an actual IR
What difference does it make (assuming UK-only flying of course, and the other IMC restrictions)? Obviously if you're going pro, IR is obligatory, but as far as general flight safety goes, I know IMC pilots with hundreds of hours experience who can wipe the floor with newbie IR holders. Then again I also know IMC rated pilots who are an absolute liability, so swings and roundabouts. The key is currency and knowing your limits, regardless of rating. I'd rather fly with a current IMC pilot than an IR holder who's done nowt for 11 months since his last renewal. Instrument flying is very much "use it or lose it".
I've had an IMC for some time, and recently got an IR. The latter is more difficult, of course it is, but your implication that you can't safely and competently fly to specific minima on the former is absolute tosh I'm afraid.