Interesting how arguments are circular. The Devon AAT is extolling the virtues of ownership as the way to go, at the same time that it is obvious to others that leasing is the sensible route.
I am not sure whether Bond would offer the same rates to everyone else as they have for SEWP. Perhaps they did the South Wales thing as a loss leader. If you believe some of the figures quoted in the press from time to time, Bond charge considerably more than this for some of the HEMS aircraft they provide. The 2 competitors for the South wales contract were much more expensive (allegedly).
My experience is that the managers of ASUs have fairly entrenched positions. Some think leasing is the way to go (those who lease)- others vote for ownership (the ones that own). It is pretty difficult to change mid-stream so to speak. Presumably the Home Office would want their capital grants back if the police forces wanted to sell the aircraft, which would suddenly reduce the attractiveness of leasing as a way of saving money.