Update
Just to let you all know, I wrote to Group Captain Tony Banks, the author of the article in the Club newsletter which provoked this discussion, with what I thought was a fair summary of the various points raised on this thread (favourable and unfavourable). He also has the link to the thread so he can read it in full if he wishes.
I have today heard from the Club Secretary, Peter Owen, that Gp Capt Banks has received the email, and its contents will be discussed at the next board meeting on 16th June.
After that I'm hoping for some feedback, and naturally I'll keep you informed.
TTN