The matter of the upgraded fire protection for the pit stops is probably unavoidable given the general theme of Health and Safety in the modern age. However, it would be ridiculous to see folk walking round the warming up area in ordinary clothing, (such as brolly dollies etc), if the mechanics/attendants have to wear all this clobber. Thus I will be paying special attention to that. We all know that it is overkill, but it aint going to go away, and if there ever was a genuine conflagration, we may be relieved that our protection was of a higher spec. Warrior's comments are, to the best of my knowledge, correct.
The facts are that entries for the event are oversubscribed, and if a few competitors drop out due to the rising costs and issues regarding H & S, then it may be that they would be doing the organisers a favour.
I hear what you all say, it is 40 years since my first race in the Isle of Man, and I have seen so much change. Being still involved as a competitor gives me an ideal opportunity to comment on the state of the event from the inside. I am fairly intolerant of change, and generally not backward in coming forward if something or someone rattle my cage, so I do have a great deal of empathy for the situation that faces us here. However I am not expecting much leeway with regards the specification of pit lane overalls!
My official title by the way, is Riders Liaison Officer for the Manx Grand Prix, not the Classic TT.