Morning!
IMHO I think it's rather dependent on your environment. If you're given a significant climb, a high rate is generally helpful for both sides (you get up, we get you out of our sector!
However I would be cautious using high rates for small climbs or within spitting distance of your cleared level, to reduce any RA's. Of course this is particularly pertinent if you see something on TCAS or you're given Traffic Info and can expect to be level for a short while.
As Windypops suggests you may well be given such TI but there is no requirement for the Controller to do so, or to 'ask' you to reduce your rate. This is especially true if they're busy as (with one or two exceptions for certain persons(!)) they will omit TI as they'll be concentrating on keeping you all moving as quickly and safely as possible.
Hope this helps
MrM
Last edited by Cartman's Twin; 17th Oct 2012 at 07:38.