F4 EF5 I think you've got it spot on. Safeguards are put in the system to highlight problems such as lost leave, unfortunately aircrew generally are poor at the blunt stuff and so the problem doesn't get highlighted.
If everyone applies for all their leave that they are entitled, taking note of any leave entitlements published in SROs etc, then the problem cannot be swept away.
Any boss and Flt Cdr worth his salt will sign leave passes as rejected when he has to and fully support those who are highlighting lost leave problems.
DC thanks for the info. Useful to know how to play the system - objective comment will not get a hammering here from me.
GB