Perhaps these questions should be asked to the MBF,
rmcd - you aren't naive enough to think that the MBF aren't fully aware of this thread and the concerns and questions being raised. You'd think, then, that they would respond in some form, not necessarily in Pprune but possibly in an appropriate mail-out or emailed circular, to alleviate and answer any concerns and questions accordingly. That is sadly lacking and demonstrates an arrogance towards the membership.
The key to putting your case, any case, is effective communication. It's just not happening with the MBF.