I can't talk for Europe but I do know that there is some dissension about
this rule from IFALPA. This is primarily related to retirement and pension
fund problems and other industrial issues.
The CAA in South Africa adopted this rule and filed a difference with ICAO
about two years ago. There are moves from ALPA - SA to try and undo this
adoption based on the IFALPA unhappiness over the retirement funding
problems.
Regards,
Brett