I reckon that the concept should continue to be a balance of securing the safety of the FFs/locals and prevent property damage.
With the John Wayne approach, whilst the public safety could be satisfied, I am not sure I'd be happy for my building to be needlessly damaged, when the alternative (ie waiting) could satisfy both requirements.
In addition, the Kings X cross incident was unusual as any sniper would have a fairly clear view of the cylinders as they were on the top of a tall service/liftshaft being constructed. This is not usually the case as most cylnders are found in workshops or other locations which would (I imagine) pose difficulties for sharp shooters.
This is not a fire service problem, it belongs to industry. I'd be interested to know what started the Kings X fire. I assume from the time of day and location, that arson is least probable. I suggest that, in most cases, better training (how many workers fully understand the dangers of acetylene!?) and supervision of building sites can often may of prevent such fires
Perhaps if fire safety arrangements/legislation was tightened in such environments (ie where acetylene is used or stored) , industry would be more encouraged to find alternatives to using acetylene.