Why is Group Policy Limited to specific keys?

I've always failed to understand why Group Policy couldn't be used with
any registry key, the way it is used with the built-in ADM templates?
I know, I can create custom adm templates that will modify the registry
a la NT policies which tatoo the registry. But why can't they be
overlayed just like the real "policies?" I've always assumed the
overlaying was done in memory, e.g. loading keys under Group Policy in
place of the real key, thus leaving the previous setting in HKLM, or
HKU untouched. Why can't they do this with any key?

.

Relevant Pages

  • Group Policy: Disabling Recently Edited Files List
    ... SP3 ADM templates were tested also with the same result. ... Even if the setting did get applied via Group Policy, ... The setting is wrong in the ADM file and/or Word isn't looking at that setting in the registry when it opens. ...
    (microsoft.public.word.general)
  • Re: Admin / Domain Admin rights problem
    ... As far as Group Policy - registry you will not see that in Local ... >> Key and SubKey - Type of Access: ... >> Detailed Access Flags: ...
    (microsoft.public.win2000.security)
  • Re: Applying zone settings on Pop-up Blocker
    ... I checked the registry and the settings is there! ... > Troubleshooting Group Policy in Microsoft? ...
    (microsoft.public.windows.group_policy)
  • Re: Apply registry setting.
    ... registry setting to the editor in Group Policy and allow you to manage it. ... GPOE and then managed on the GPO itself. ... diagnostic value called 'Replication Events' that can be turned on the ...
    (microsoft.public.win2000.group_policy)
  • Re: Location of local policies
    ... The registry is one location. ... The Group Policy template folder contains subfolders, including, but not ...
    (microsoft.public.windowsxp.security_admin)
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