Further to the previous reply, quite correctly, these procedures are to ensure separation form other traffic - providing you make the level! The majority of our traffic works on these standing agreements between sectors to negate the need for invidual co-ordination. If you are given a restriction, we need to know as soon as possible if there is any reason that you will not make it - for example, the FL250 30dme before MID would need co-ordination with the sector above if you are going to be high at the target point. There are procedures for almost all the London TMA and other major UK airfields - unfortunatley with a system like this, somebody always loses out and it just happens to be the Birmingham & East Midlands traffic in the case of the FL250 before MID - SORRY! The restrictions are generally relaxed at night times or during quiet periods. Basically, if the restriction is lifted, the Controller will tell you - if he doesn`t, assume the procedure is still in force. We will try and get you there as quick as possible and if we can, we will offer the direct routeing. But, unfortunately, this is not always possible in the evenings - especially around 22.00 - 00.00 due to a big `clear out` of traffic to the Far East, Africa and lots of arrivals to the London TMA. So, to re-cap, if you are not told that the restriction will not apply, assume that it does - you will be told if it is not necessary. You will always be given a direct route if it is available! Hope this helps!!