@ Sadpole
Consulting one's own airline in such cases has nothing to do with communist mentality, as you suggest. In fact it is standard practice in all airlines I know - the tech staff on the ground have better knowledge of the aircraft's systems than the flight crew, access to documentation etc. and usually are able to provide invaluable advice to the crew. However, the final decision lies with the commander and he may continue, or divert wherever he sees fit. Period.
Besides, all the data presented so far suggests that the decision to continue to the destination had no impact on the (in)ability to extend the gear and in fact, had been the most sensible in the circumstances and in line with the basic concept of triple-redundant systems (such as 767 hydraulics), which allows to continue safe flight in case of single failure...