Regarding gliders and mandatory transponders I'm not sure what the latest technology can offer but of course the open FIR is just that, open. Lookout, lookout, lookout!
After 32 years of mil flying without TCAS and now 2 years of flying with it, relying simply on lookout just doesn't cut the mustard and TCAS makes you realise how many aircraft you didn't see.
Back to HC - the MoD is still self-regulating under MAA since it is not a truly external agency. There are still games being played with airworthiness and ALARP as the OSD for platforms is used as an excuse for not upgrading systems. The risks appear on a risk matrix, have been pushed up the DH chain as far as possible and declared ALARP due to cost but none of this actually removes the risk to those in the cockpit.
It would be interesting to hear HC's views on the MAA process. Emperor's new clothes anyone?