The research study was done in two parts.
The fist part was conducted by Qinetiq at Farnborough who determined that the ONLY real colour critical tasks wer:
(a) Parking Stand lights - I have discussed this with a number of high hour long-haul flight crew who were highly sceptical of this finding, and;
(b) Precision Approach Path Indicator lighting systems
The second part of the study was undertaken by London City University Applied Visual Research Centre who conducted a series of laboratory tests with Colour Vision Deficient persons.
The net result was that a piece of software (CAD) has been developed which it is claimed can identify whether or not an individual's CVD is within limits for commercial aviation.
The CAD has been described by many as completely irrelevant and an 'academic's wet dream', which, when you consider the professional qualifications that some have gained and indeed may still stand to gain from it, could be seen to be a fair comment.
This project has probably cost the CAA a significant amount of PUBLIC funds, money which should have been spent on real aviation safety, and if the CAD does not gain acceptance throughout EASA or even the world then egg may be on faces. It has been rumoured that there is resistance to its introduction in some JAA member states,especially those that have a more enlightened view and do not consider CVD to be a significant hazard to flight safety.
What is of very significant importance is the statement that 35% extra examinees may become colour safe. Putting it simply, that means that they are colour safe now but just because there is a very flawed testing system they won't allow them to fly. So the system blanket prohibits everyone with even the mildest of CVD regardless of whether they pose a hazard to flight safety. You cannot move safety parameters on the basis of changing a test. That is absurd and you cannot have a more blatant example of positive discrimination than this. Despite the claims of certain persons that the Courts would never entertain such a claim.....well, let's see, shall me.
Hope this helps.