Why does the nppl theoretically take fewer hours - same tests and exams.
Its called Marketing!
Last week I tested a JAA PPL candidate who had the minimum of 35 hours; yes it is acheivable, but he is the first one I have ever seen, and was well above average for a PPL candidate.
The BMAA produced statistics for Microlight training and on average it takes 55 hours to qualify on a 25 hour course.