Worst since 1981
Butler,
I am not replying to you specifically, merely tagging on.
At least in the US, things have not been this grim since the early 'eighties.
My employer has imposed upon exempt staff a ten day furlough over the next fiscal year, which will in turn extend through at least the one after that, and possibly a third.
This was based upon the parity typically given the exempts based upon what the various unions agree to. The punch line, of course, is that most of the bargaining unit staff are deemed essential, and will not suffer the financial consequences of the furlough. A real hoot.
No one likes having their pay or benefits reduced, even if one gains ten days off. By the same token, it is all about survival now for many enterprises, including BA. This begs the question of whether we are all better off sacrificing in the short run to keep that paycheck coming, or whether we should instead figure that the paycheck is not likely to continue in any event, and therefore refuse any concessions.