Oh, they do that in Europe, do they?

True story, a few days ago:

Where: NatWest (it's a bank) in New Bridge Street (in the CITY, of all places), London, UK:

"So, is it true that it is not possible to transfer money online to other countries?
Yes, I'm afraid it is, for international transfers you need to come to the branch (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm) and fill in a paper form. Alternatively, you can call your Private Banking team (side comment: slightly better timings, I found out: Monday to Friday from 8am to 6 pm... - does that sound like working and commuting time to you? To me it does...)

What about SEPA?
SEPA?

The European Payment System?....
Not sure what that is...

...

But why can't it be done online, it is possible in Switzerland, Netherlands, Portugal, in any simple bank account?
Oh, they do that in Europe, do they?