I can see it somewhat happen. Like Simon said they don't need 3000 anymore, and making the CO's independent isn't that really the way they are headed now. The CO's are the one's who appoint elder's and MS's now without going through the branch.
It used to be if you called the US branch you would at least get the initial's of some made up name, last spring when I called they would not even give you that. They are getting more paranoid and creepy on the phone.
Also I can see them making CO's support themselves, doesn't everyone who serve's where the need is great do that all ready. We did. And any place they send you where they deem the need to be great, it is usually hard to find work. Do they care or help you. No they just tell you to relie on Jehovah and just make sure you get your time in. We got no help from anyone, yet for eveyone who burns out they always seem to have two dying to replace them, by telling them to keep their blinders on and Jehovah will bless them.
Time will tell.
LITS