Pulse 1:
"From another novice, yes, the MAA is responsible for the FAA and AAC. I believe that, for the front line of both services, it is generally seen as a retrograde step. The FAA safety system was run by middle rank officers with no prospect of further promotion and this gave them the independence which must be an essential component of any safety regulation. This has now been lost. "
Despite the obvious confusion over its published purpose; the MAA is actually responsible for both "Forward and Depth" maintenance of all MOD owned aircraft (that's Line and Base maintenance to most people).
And I totally agree with your second point about the loss of independence.