I agree 100% with HiFlyer.
Windypops, could it not be the case that the operators you make note of did not actually understand the requirements in the first place? For those who may not, feel free to call the team in Douglas - they won't make you feel like an idiot, or try to bust you for what you may have misunderstood - they are there to help.
Yes there has been a change at the top. Hartley Elder has left the registry, and Brian Johnson has taken up the post of Director of Civil Aviation; both of whom are in the top of any league.
I doubt very much that any register could compete with the M in terms of customer service, a common sense approach and a practical understanding of the difficulties that operators potentially face from time to time. If you have a question or request these guys are there to help - no need to kiss arse and bend over - if you play by their rules (which are simple, straight forward and very well explained) they will help solve any problem or operational issue and you can be assured that they are not out to get you. These guys make it easy to comply!
This is a register that is expanding (third most popular private register in the World) not one in decline. Anyone operating an aircraft for private purposes in Europe who does not register on the M must be deranged!