Lowkoon
My TREs do fail trainees and admittedly we have had a few 'interesting' visits from CPs and HR but with very few exceptions, we retain the contracts.
The TREs are and must be independent of commercial pressures and if Customers want 'rubber stamp' checks, then there are (as you indicate) unfortunately still plenty of ducks who will oblige.
Eventually the regulatory authorities will get to grips with this as they must if safety is to remain the priority and one day those ducks will be rightfully shot.