well just been onto another site to try and but foreign currency and again got rejected, received an email from Amex straight after

Dear Cardmember,

We noticed that you recently attempted a cash withdrawal on your Account and that it was declined. We are writing to you to explain why this happened and to apologise for any concern this may have caused.

Your attempt to withdraw cash was declined as the amount requested exceeded the maximum cash limit that applies to your account.

If you would like to discuss the current limits and cash availability on your Account, please speak to one of our customer care professionals using the number shown on the back of your Card. We will be more than happy to assist you.

Yours sincerely,

American Express Customer Care

So they are really treating this purchase as a cash withdrawal. And as I said I cannot get a cash limit until I have had the card for 6 months