Exactly right Esouria,
If the student has flown the a/c the whole time and all you have effectively done is "checked" them, then it makes sense that they log command. Same as instrument renewal really, if the chief pilot or chief instructor hasnt done anything all flight and you are within the 12 months of your renewal, why shouldnt you log command. It is after all, a "CHECK" flight because you are already licenced do do the flight.
I actually think that the rules on this are written to allow for a bit of leeway. Common sense SHOULD prevail and i really dont think the powers that be, will worry about arguing over it.
Mind you if they want to argue, send them my way. Ive got little to do at the moment and i like a challenge!
CA