boofta
I haven't had a chance to read the report yet but can tell you I witnessed the event play out on radar.
While not downplaying the issues of upgrading from local standby to full emergency in the latter stages and the usefulness of a landing clearance under the circumstances, I know for a fact that the Captain tracked down and personally thanked the Approach controller who provided an exemplary service in positioning the aircraft to become visual immediately off the western end of Lantau and in a position where a landing was basically assured.
I think the crew will confirm for you that "tracking as required" in IMC (which they were, or at least had little visual reference except for the Sokoes) may have resulted in a less than favourable outcome.
Nice to see you think so highly of us. You probably get a mention in our conversations about arse and elbow as well.