MB
The eligibility start date is the whole point of contention. I do not see the selection of a date that satisfies a generous spirit towards the award, covering as many as possible rather than the mean spirited few as possible - as has been imposed, to be a difficult task for a suitable study. In fact, I am sure this work will have already been done before the ridiculous penny-pinching cut-off was made!
My own opinion is that the start date should go back as far as possible, within the scope of the other criteria for the award and, without conflicting with other awards or protocols.
OAP