I believe they have now capped the 50% salary to a set number of weeks, or FLC - whichever is earlier. Can't remember off the top of my head how many weeks it is though.
It's still ridiculous but hey ho. The varying offers and differing contracts is still an issue, it seems to vary day by day, week by week. Be clear about what it is you want from the start, and there is every chance you'll get it.