tff:-
If the MAA is the regulator, independent or otherwise, are they not really the equivalent of the airline safety department?
Definitely otherwise, and like any airline safety department is obliged to do as its employer dictates at the end of the day. "Independence" seems to depend upon no such dictates being made. Given the evidence that dervish refers to, we can have no confidence in such assurances being adhered to in the future.
Independence not only has to work, but be seen to work. A truly independent MAA and MAAIB, separate from the MOD and from each other, sistered with the CAA and AAIB respectively, and headed by civilian DGs will thus work. Then, and only then, can the long long task of rebuilding and restoring UK Military Flight Safety begin.