The offer was never taken off the table for the FS. The guy had the authority. It was BHX interfering because they want the airport claim settled before the FS so that it will not give people any Ideas.
Re BHX pay.. There is always more to negotiate than the basic % rise. The talks are still on going. If they can't screw you one way they will always try another...
A new head at the helm of HR would not go amiss.
It looks like the airport is pushing its intent to become landlords only, on a pace. Several feasability studies appear to be going on. They have to have something to offer the new owners - whoever that maybe - .