Getting the right length pan connector for a toilet with plinth

[pmcbgle]

Hi all,
We recently had to have our toilet pan replaced as the old one cracked. Plumber installed new pan as in pics below, and says we have a choice - 3 inches behind the plinth or 3 inches sticking out over.

This can't be right can it? Is there no solution to get the connection length right?

2 pics below showing replacement install (even the downpipe from the cistern is going back at an angle)
and one to show how it was originally.

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Would suggest you get another plumber as that looks a dogs dinner

Mcalpine WC-CON2B