I think JW411 is completely correct.
The
evidence overwhelmingly shows N-reg pilots flying trivial missions, mostly in aircraft so poorly maintained they cannot even cross the British Channel, while British-reg pilots fly the really heavy stuff. No wonder N-reg pilots are afraid of having to submit themselves to the proper and correct morally and intellectually superior European standards. Most of them can't even fly as far as Earls Colne, Wolverhampton, Wycombe, or Biggin.
I think it should be harder still, however. The 14 ATPL exams cannot possibly cover the depth of knowledge required of a pilot choosing to take up residence on British soil.
I give up.
That picture, BTW, is played out all over Europe.
That is what is driving the regulation.