There used to be a similar theme in the US, but it slowly disappeared from 1990-2010. Primarily because they are so rare they are now more of a quaint oddity more than a sign of driving competence.

The game theory on why manuals are disappearing is obvious. Drivers who can drive MT can also drive AT, but the reverse is not true.

I love MTs, but buying one means dealing with the following hassles:

1. Finding a dealership that actually has any MT cars. Let alone with the options I want. Often MTs are only available on stripped models or 60k sports cars. There are entire segments of vehicles where manuals are no longer offered. Full size truck with a manual? Nope.

2. Owning a car that only I can drive without becoming a driving instructor to whoever needs to borrow it.

3. Reselling the car when my needs change. I.E. Find someone who both wants the specific car I have, and also can drive an MT.