Are we going to go down that old track!
Its a debate that cant be won.
Why not give all suitable people the full B1 training regardless what trade they are?
There is scope in the agreement.
There are Mech guys out there with EIR licences aswell as EIR guys out there with Mech licences, including large a/c and lighties.
The next time you chat with any BA guys, ask them how the new style licences went for them.