Spanner, yes I have read the bit about transport workers, I had a different take on it though.
I agree getting your MP involved would be a good idea, trouble is we are trying to show we have left the country, so there is the problem of claiming to have an MP.
Anyway I am getting advice from an expert later this month, if anything interesting is forthcoming I will share.
By the way I don't think I can be accused of whining on this subject.
If the doom and gloom merchants are correct, then working in the Middle East is a pointless exercise, (for me anyway).