Question taken from the ESC website.
NDQ34 "Is it acceptable to mount a cooker switch in a kitchen cupboard that is adjacent to the cooking appliance"
Answer
NDA34 "Yes, provided that the switch is located so as to be readily accessible"
So it would seem there is a middle ground. I would suggest moving the switch towards the front of the cupboard so as to make it more readily accessible.
Thing is its fixed to fabric of building , open cupboard door, at back board is cut and switches visible and reachable, cupboard by the way is next to cooker.
I am with enginneer 54 on this i have to say even thought its me in this situation, i hate that thought of pots pans and wot not in the way. it just irritates me. So although i do see it as now even when quoting from ESC as something permit able i would avoid at all costs. its don't compute to well with me. buy seemingly going to have to bite it on this occasion..