There were many AW's who had never taken a client out, and some that were always coming up with an excuse. DMQ were going to charge to be an AW, but this was just a red herring I think. Many jumped ship, and this reduced the numbers. As far as I am aware they are not recruiting anymore AW's, but I stand to be corrected.
Some I know have still not taken a candidate out, and probably never will. I usually have about 4 to 8 candidates per year. Its now only one ICR, which I am personally not in favour of, but that's not my decision. But I find it enjoyable taking candidates, and many times they book for a trial run first to see if I think they are fully up to speed. Nothing wrong in that all, most are on the ball. However the final decision is up to the Assessor and internal verifier.