Ok just to clarify 404, I was not employed as a pilot at the time of the instrument rating (end of 06), subsequently finding employment in early 07, (which required MECIR for all operations, paid accordingly). As they are in the same financial year (06-07), I could have claimed the MECIR?
Too late for me now....
(hmmm need something stronger than beer at this moment).
But if it helps others, it's a small consolation.