There's some current disagreement about taking statins in the medical community because of the side effects. One such possible risk is increased chance of developing diabetes esp in women so it seems unlikely to actually improve diabetic conditions (couldn't access the Diabetes Association reference below that would conflict with this). Unless one's chance for heart disease is very high, statins may not necessarily be recommended by doctors as much because of these problematic side affects.
Also, more recently there has been evidence showing the traditional cholesterol HDL/LDL tests are not necessarily particularly indicative of heart disease risks. It seems the size and density of the particles distinguish good (large, fluffy) from bad (small and dense that clog vessels) which is another newer test. My GP won't authorize an advanced lipids test for me but eventually these particle size tests will be more available. If you could try to have this advanced lipids test done that could be the discerning factor on how dangerous your lipid condition is since the cholesterol levels could be quite high but if the particles are large they may be relatively harmless. Good work maintaining lower levels with lifestyle changes, trusting your instincts and consulting with your doctor.

Thank you for adding to this conversation @pale and raising awareness of the controversy within the medical community. I went on an Internet search to find some articles for further information on the points you raise.

- Statin side effects: Weigh the benefits and risks http://mayocl.in/LgbtrS (Mayo Clinic, 2016): In this article, as you point out, it states:
"It's possible your blood sugar (blood glucose) level may increase when you take a statin, which may lead to developing type 2 diabetes. The risk is small but important enough that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning on statin labels regarding blood glucose levels and diabetes.

Statins prevent heart attacks in patients with diabetes, so the relevance of the mild increase in sugar values with statins observed in some patients is unclear. The benefit of taking statins likely outweighs the small risk to have the blood sugar level go up. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns."

- Should you seek advanced cholesterol testing? http://bit.ly/1qawdWo (Harvard, 2014): This describes the advanced lipids to which you refer. Do you have a more recent article?

- American Diabetes Association 2016 Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and Diabetes http://bit.ly/2dutFgx (NDEI, 2016)

Pale, do you have diabetes? How do you manage it?

Are you still off statins?