You don't need to be in cloud to be IMC. Check out the vertical distance from cloud to fly through class D airspace VFR when SERA hits us in Dec 2014!
Glider pilots are unhappy that they will not be legal unless 1000' vertically clear of cloud when above 3000'.
In recently closed SERA consultation CAA expect pilots will have to remain clear of class D airspace when VFR much more than now due to increased flight visibility and distance from cloud rule changes for next year.
Get the rating - it will let you continue to fly outside cloud in situations where it will otherwise be illegal!