SoCal -
It wasn't a complaint, thanks, initially a query to find out who else had been asked.
I appreciate that a ramp check could indeed be more intrusive, though I feel it potentially more useful. I have worked and flown in the USA and like the system there, which seemed overall to work more on the concept that the individual is responsible for his own fate - not always, I accept.T he ideal seldom works.
Captain Stable -all true.
I was however brought up classically to mistrust Greeks (or 'Civil servants') bearing gifts. Next time? You want to bet it will cost, with some absurd 'justification' ? Probably based on some nonsensical misunderstanding of basic HSE.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it -works well. Generally 'civil servants' (rarely in my experience) do litle to benefit us taxpayers nowadays. The old concept of service is long gone. Gold plating or gilding lilies indeed - possibly gold bricking would be a more appropriate description.
I hope I'm wrong, but I ain't holding my breath !
Thanks all for your views & comments.
Biscuit74