Originally Posted by
RAT 5
UK MATS Part 1
That's an interesting one. It would suggest ATC is responsible for separation on takeoff. Years ago I was at LGW, holding. An M was given "cleared for takeoff" behind an H. The captain of M spouted up that "You should know I need 2 mins!" Humph. ATC replied, "I only cleared you for takeoff, I didn't order you to takeoff. Take your time."
So which is it? I'd always assumed it was the pilots' responsibility on takeoff and ATC on arrival.
UK MATS Part 1
"Note: ATC shall apply the minima as prescribed above, irrespective of any pilot request for reduced wake turbulence separation. ATC does not have the discretion to reduce wake turbulence separation minima."
Unless the rules have changed since your quoted incident I'd suggest the ATCO was at fault.