by Daniel Neis Araujo.
Hi, Richard
you may take a look at MDL-40779. I linked this to your issue.
I would recommend not mention that you "desperately" need this. A business or institution must understand https://docs.moodle.org/dev/Process and it's calendar. Your issue has more chances to be accepted if you can provide a code solution or initial work on code that will be reviewed by HQ. A business or person can always contact a Moodle Partner on his/her territory to get support/consulting/development services to help with any Moodle issues. There is also the Moodle User Association that serves as a channel to get things done on Moodle.
Best regards,
Daniel