Thought I'd just add one for those that do try hard at the CAA FCL dept.
Called them up with some licencing issues and to find out more about licence conversion if I gained a CPL(IR) overseas and then wanted to convert to JAA afterwards.
Not only were they very helpful and friendly but also offered to e-mail me all relevant documentation and info.
Received the e-mail shortly afterwards with an invitation to call them back if I had any further questions.
I'm not sure whom I spoke to but the e-mail I received from them was sent by one MG Sims.
Just shows that there are some at the CAA who do care about us!!