And I have it in writing that the IMC is bot valid in the CI zone, only that it may be used to lower the SVR requirements but NOT fly under IFR.
Interesting, bose-x, could you clarify what you mean?
Flight in IMC in the Channel Islands CTR is obviously not possible with an IMC Rating because the airspace is Class A. I assume, therefore, you're referring to the Class D CTR's that surround Guernsey and Jersey. Many years ago (I've no idea about the present position), the IMCR used to be taught by instructors in Guernsey who only had an IMCR, and that included practice approaches in other than VMC! Does your letter of advice indicate that is no longer permitted.