CAA Paper 2002/06: Work Hours of Aircraft Maintenance Personnel
CAA Paper 2002/06: Work Hours of Aircraft Maintenance Personnel | Publications | CAA
The EC WTD is enacted in the UK through the Working Time Regulations (WTR). The WTR contains an 'opt out' clause. This clause permits a work pattern of more than 48 hours in any one week but only if an average of less than 48hours/week can be achieved over a 17-week period. Working in excess of this is not permitted for any employees, either permanent or contracted staff.
As long as LAE is working within the rule, it is lawful.
To call LAE stupidity is to lower your integrity gaining no respect from any one.