Thanks everyone for all the replies.
There does seem to be some debate on this issue - is it possible that ATC rules have not kept up with modern a/c capability?
The reply from "This is a crisis" is presumably from a Controller, but is it reasonable to presume that (a) (see below) could be interpreted to mean that if the Controller believes that the a/c is capable of safely and efficiently proceeding to a point on the published approach that does not require flying the full procedure, then they can permit this 'short cut'?
(a) the air traffic control clearance issued for the flight, as amended by any further instructions given by an air traffic control unit; and, unless he is otherwise authorised by the appropriate air traffic control unit;