yeahbutyeahbutyeahbut...
I'm a bit uncomfortable about appearing to be an apologist for the company but I feel the need to provide some balancing comments.
For those who remember our old policy the provision to commit to a destination clause in the "new" policy provided a welcome option to avoid being forced into a diversion to the alternate once min diversion fuel was reached. This avoided the illogical situation where you were then "committed to alternate" which usually left you in a less safe position with more unknowns at an unfamiliar airport. Its actually a good option.
Regarding uncovering the fwd fuel pumps - are you sure this isn't more to avoid damaging the pumps?