I know what people mean about starting up a base etc being very expensive but why don't they use the bases they already have a presence in all be it a subsidery (BACitiExpress) like SOU, LCY, BRS. I am sure all of the staff at these bases would be greatful to recieve a larger variaty of flights, all be it on the same aircraft, but to routes that the airport in question does not all ready serve.
There are hundreds of destinations buisness travellers need to get to and giving them more choice of departure airport would surely be beneficial to BA. Plus the staff in the regions take home around 20% less than LON