In a very modest way, it redirects focus onto whether or not Operation Grange ever was a genuine search for the truth. It most certainly doesn't do anyone any harm at all
Ans. If it wasn't a genuine attempt to find the truth, it would never have been authorised. More specifically, the Portuguese would not have co-operated. Why whitewash over a whitewash? To demand answers before SY & the new PJ team have reached a conclusion is very disrespectful to those good officers who are doing their best for Madeleine & her loved ones.
REPLY: What were these various reasons? I would be grateful if you could please tell me what you think they were
Ans. I believe SY were seeking to confirm the existence of Smithman by eliminating the necessity for his presence in the first place, ie, Tannerman. The release of the efits put the pressure on any innocent tourist to come forward as he (Smithman) was now the prime suspect in the eyes of the public, but not SY, for the reasons you have already listed.
It's the original Portuguese corruption you should be questioning, not the subsequent actions of a police force who had no real knowledge or control over the aftermath of the night of 3rd May 2007.