(j3.2006) (SC22WG5.4126) Problems created by some compiler extended size options

[Craig Rasmussen]

There was a discussion at the MPI forum regarding the use of extended  
size compiler options.  It appears that there some options on some  
compilers that promote integers even if the kind parameter is specified.

The problem with this is that it breaks the C interoperability  
standard.  For example, the code,

       integer(C_INT) :: i
       call bindc_function(i)

appears to be broken as the variable i will get promoted.

Is this a common compiler option?  I've been told that users most  
often chose the compiler option that promotes everything, even if an  
explicit kind is provided.

I think this practice is evil!

-craig