My 0.02€ - Have a look at other EASA member states. They all follow the same rules, but there are still substantial regional differences when interpreting them.
Personal story - I got a medical in country A, after being rejected in country B. Some countries require you to renew the MEIR in an airplane only, with a valid MEP, and others allow you to revalidate in the sim without a need for a mep (saving $$)
Shop around. If the UK CAA is pulling your legs, try somewhere else. The license is still valid, no matter which EASA state issued it.