421C,
Perhaps we agree on facts, but we differ on the priority we attach to them.
I consider an en route only rating to be substantially inferior (less useful and less safe) than the IMC Rating and not a satisfactory compromise. Dare I say it: I'll bet my view is the majority one among UK PPLs.
I'm appalled at the thought that UK representatives might consider en route IMCR acceptable as an alternative, and I hope this is not the case. To have an en-route IMC rating in addition is great, if other countries agree. But it should be clear that preserving the IMCR in the UK is a precondition for the UK. If other countries can have national ratings (e.g. altiport) then the UK can.