I agree but the stats are in someways meaningless to the current argument.
They are not comparing like for like. The experence levels are completely different, the currency levels amongst the majority of FAA holders is higher on the PPL side of things.
The IR PPL brigade in Europe both FAA and JAR are hardcore pilots who would put quite a few commercial pilots to shame with both there procedural knowledge and hand flying skill's.
I really don't have a problem with the protectionism personally but then again I have worked in areas where it is the norm and expect to get shafted at some point. When the good times come to an end its not a suprise and I always have an escape route planned before I even start. I would just tell everyone that it was Political and Protectionism. There really isn't and argument to be had about that when you put your cards on the table.