Originally Posted by
HeliComparator
It would be so easy if it were described in the AIP
Well, here's a definition for you (again)...
"Radar control is the term used to indicate that radar-derived information is employed directly in the provision of air traffic control service." (ICAO Doc 4444: PANS-ATM)
Furthermore...
"Radar control is employed where available within controlled airspace for traffic identification, control and separation in all phases of flight."
(I do, of course, agree that separation is not required for VFR in class D but radar derived info can be used to identify and control VFR flights. And I do mean "control" as VFR flights must comply with ATC instructions in Class D - or state that they cannot.)
Same definition is used by EASA.
As I understand it the UK AIP hasn't filed an amendment to the definition so it still stands.
A cursory glance at AIP, Section 1.2 of link below, describes the ATC service provided.
http://www.ead.eurocontrol.int/eadba...2016-03-31.pdf
There is nothing sinister in the term "Radar Control Service"...in fact it should provide VFR flights with some assurance that radar is available to provide a better service to your flight. No additional obligations to VFR flights.