"Alun L. Palmer" wrote in message
...

[snip]

Actually, I think there should be as few different licences as possible,
and that inevitably involves merging licences. I don't think that
'automatic upgrades' are a problem, as those affected all have 'time in
grade'. On reflection, I don't favour downgrades.

There is nothing inevitable about it. Time will take care of the matter.
There is no reason for either automatic upgrades or downgrades. It is no
particular additional burden to anyone to leave it as it is. There are only
three possible classes for new or upgrading hams. That seems about right to
me. Even when I originally licensed and passed through all five levels, I
thought three would be more appropriate.

Dee D. Flint, N8UZE