Chris,
I agree with all that you say, especially this bit:
Everyone is acutely aware, however, that as soon as airlines start recruiting non type rated pilots, the floodgates will well and truly open and as a result there is no burning desire to smooth the path anymore. If I subscribed to conspiracy theories it would appear to be rather convenient that ELC support to complete the ATPL has been (temporarily) removed.
Sadly though, the MOD would be burying its head in the sand if it took that view. It wouldn't surprise me if the EASA decided that, unless military training was properly accredited, military pilots should not be allowed to enter European controlled airspace.
In my view, it shouldn't be left to 22(Trg) Gp to manage this; it should be the MAA because it's very much an airworthiness issue. Perhaps the CAA and MAA are already working together on it?
