Not sure whether all the info posted here is accurate. I believe you can use an IMC rating in IMC conditions in some Class D airspace provided the Class D has not been notified for Schedule 8. eg Liverpool, Newcastle.
Extract fromm CAA GID 15
PART 2 THE INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS RATING
INTRODUCTION
(a) An IMC Rating may be attached to either a UK or a JAR-FCL PPL(A). It extends the privileges of a
PPL(A) holder to allow flight as Pilot-in-Command of aeroplanes:
(b) Out of sight of the surface;
(c) When in IMC outside controlled airspace notified for the purposes of Schedule 8 to the ANO;
(d) Carrying passengers above 3000 feet above mean sea level (amsl) in IMC or in a flight visibility
less than 5 kilometres at or below that height, when outside controlled airspace notified for the
purposes of Schedule 8 to the ANO;
(e) During take-off or landing with a flight visibility below cloud of not less than 1800 metres;
This was confirmed by my CFI at home base LPL. Anyone disagree.
Let the "get out of trouble" debate roll on - it depends on each individual.
Fly safe
aztec
[I]