Sykes good to see that you have a firm grasp of the English lingo and one day that fact might earn you the privi to blind others or be blinded, 'till then tallyho.
Keg, it looks like it has been a while for you, but despite what the ''Eurochantels'' say, BA aren't lit up nor are the stateside carriers or any of the other carriers that you mention especially at Sydney, however logic seems to prevail over recommendations. It is a recommendation and not a mandate.
A change comes from within.I don't want to tarnish everyone at the Q with the same brush of illogic but the regulars on here seem to be out to justify the unjustifiable. Like most things it will take a lot of effort to change something through the channels especially if there is a lone voice.
PPRUNe might just be able to convey the message and evoke the logic from some in the know,wouldn't it?
Post a copy of this argument/plea in your crew room just like you have done with the post of the grateful passenger and his kid.