Don't know if it was as a result of this thread, but inbound this AM on a Willo3B to LGW, and a very clear 'Descend Now' from the controller. Great!
It may not be 'kosher', but by 'eck, it is clear! Is there really a problem with this?
"Pilots are expected to comply with ATC Instructions as soon as they are issued. However, when a climb/descent is left to the discretion of the pilot, the words 'when ready' shall be used; in these circumstances the pilot will report 'leaving' his present level. "
I think, PPR, most of us appreciate this, but as we have tried to explain, this is an international forum, we fly internationally, so it is not just a UK thing. Not normally a problem for UK pilots in UK airspace as we generally know and are ready for all the arcane descent restrictions, but maybe for visting crews.......?