Airservices isn't and has never been a GBE. The Board's governance described it as a legislated corporation (if memory serves correct).
Practically speaking, not too much different from a GBE but the Board has restrictions as to how far they can venture from the core business'. Good intent when formed, but probably hasn't made any difference when it comes to management ineptitude.
Fair cop,
pretty fine distinction though. The fact remains that ASA exists to turn a profit for the government, regardless of the "safety" and "service" veneer.
Love to hear their definition of 'core business'....