Hi Ed

You have made a few incorrect assumptions here.

Over this side of the pond using the handbrake and selecting neutral is accepted as best practice and encouraged.

The issue of men in baskets is highly contentious and in some countries absolutely illegal. This is in-spite of the fact that it can be legal to make and sell baskets, ( Just illegal to use them ) Don't go there !!!!!!

Practices vary around the world and it it unwise for a local trainer to be pressurized into accepting what a customer wants if it does not conform to local compliance.