Thanks Coff, but all the credit lies with you for pushing for the answers.
Looking back at this very long and very active thread, it's clear that there is a real hunger for facts. To date, we have had almost no real explanation for why the fleet was grounded, and why it is taking so long (and probably at some substantial cost) to get them back in the air. As recent posts indicate, the extent of the engineering failings (and let's be absolutely clear, this one is a pure engineering foul up) may be determining the length of the recovery. Bigger mess, bigger clean up.
There are clearly efforts under way in the MoD to keep this story below the radar, and avoid embarrassment. That is probably why the information released to date has been so sketchy and non-specific. By the way, for those who really appreciate the way governments can act if not closely watched, a reissue of JSP440 around 2010 added 'protection of departmental reputation' as a justification for classifying information. In a strange way, you had to admire the brass neck of stuff like that.
Well done to you for doing the digging so far - do please let any of us know if we can lend a hand.
Best Regards as ever to those doing the tough stuff,
Engines