I am not in anyway involved, but if it smells like bullsh1t it normally is bullsh1t.
Very convenient excuse after the troubles, and of course you have no way of knowing what it takes to obtain this newly enhanced clearance so you can't contradict them.
Sounds more like we want rid of you (collectively I assume) and this allows us to do it without being open to various (well founded ) accusations.
Sounds like you ain't welcome any more
