Really? So if you are far out from the field (coming in for landing) and ATC requests a speed 10kts or so below your managed speed, you would consider it "unprofessional" to select the speed and keep the aircraft in clean config? I would say that it is perhaps not "unprofessional" but at least uneconomical to select flaps too far out unless necessary. Having said that, if my colleague is new-ish on type or just does not feel comfortable with it then there is no discussion - ask for the flaps. Personally I would tend not to though, however its not a competition.
Keep it safe, know the aircraft's abilities and limitations and more importantly - Know your own abilities and limitations.
CP