The whole Bulldog history is one of bureaucracy gone mad:
The spar situation: as far as I know this came about as a result of fatigue testing in a test rig by the manufacturer; I don't think any aircraft in service has ever shown any sign of failure.
The modification requires a longer spar doubler and holes reamed out to a non standard bolt size. Because of the odd size of the bolts it costs a fortune.
Also, the Pup with a similar spar has, if I remember correctly, a life of 16,000hrs.
Stick tops: I believe there was one failure in Hong Kong where the aircraft was left out in the baking sun for some while. Surely, the integrity of these could easily be ascertained by any competent engineer on an 100hr inspection basis.
Seat belts: Again this is a similar situation to above. The belts I've seen are far more robust that most aircraft have.
Fatigue Meter: Another hokey exercise which relies on the owner not pulling the circuit breaker when doing aeros.
The RAF were rooked by the industry when you consider the price of spares, as a consequence the training role was put out to contract.
I love(d) flying the Bulldog a wonderfully responsive aircraft and a delight to fly.
I'll stand back and wait for the flak!