Uncle G, you're not wrong!
This is what the previous system was based upon:
JAR–FCL 1.020 Credit for military service
Application for credit: Military flight crew members applying for licences and ratings specified in JAR–FCL shall apply to the Authority of the State for which they serve(d). The knowledge, experience and skill gained in military service will be credited towards the relevant requirements of JAR–FCL licences and ratings at the discretion of the Authority. The policy for the credit given shall be reported to the JAA. The privileges of such licences shall be restricted to aircraft registered in the State of licence issue until the requirements set out in the Appendix 1 to JAR–FCL 1.005 are met.
Several years ago, we were assured by the EASA presenter who came to Gatwick for a pre-EASA meeting which I attended, that the same principles would apply under EASA. Nothing would change; it would remain the National Authority's decision as to the level of such credit and the senior CAA person present nodded in agreement.