Cannot agree with you entirely as another long term observer. The BA ground staff at all UK airports have always been a militant bunch usely trying to hold the company to ransome. I would say that they have had a very good run for their money and it was clear toa all that their roles were time expired. Many sections at LHR / LGW have been 'tuped' yeasr ago and the same unions you mention did nothing for them either. It is only a matter of time before LGW find themselves outsourced as many of them think that BA owes them a living. Sad times.