My wife's just informed me that her car wont start this morning due to a flat battery....is there any reason why it can't be bump started?  I'm vaguely aware of potential engine damage caused by such practice, but my assumption is that it would likely be an issue for more sophisticated engines.

 

Need to decide on whether I pick up jump leads/charger on my way home from work!

It says in the manual " Do not push-start the engine – There is a risk of damaging the engine and the
catalytic converter!"

Jump leads would be the better option. There may not enough charge to power fuel pumps, injectors, ignition, electronics, in which case you'll not be doing it any good by bumping it.

Since cars have become a bit more complex, I have made the choice to only ever use a booster pack, or if at home, recharge the battery - being doing that for over 30 years, making sure to nowadays use smart/safe chargers.

TBH all engines are now complex beasts. Jump or booster pack only.

One reason for not bump starting is that fuel can be drawn into the catalytic convertor and ignite inside it, wrecking it.

 

You can buy booster packs very cheaply now, which can also be used as a phone battery pack when you're out and about. My friend has one. Definitely wouldn't bump start a modern car.