Interesting changes, I guess rooted in the accident/fatality rates for younger bike riders.
Whilst I can sympathise with your frustration Martyn, I'm more inclined to ask why is there no tired access to cars for young drivers as well. Given the accident statistics for young drivers, the effect on insurance premiums, etc. learning road craft in limited power vehicles at 17 before being given full access at 24 seems quite reasonable to me
