Makes sense if you think about it. Why sponsor pilots when they can pay for their own training with the hope of joining BA? Coupled with retirements and the possibility there are less direct entry applications due to drop in conditions (final salary) would mean that they may need people.
I wouldnt suggest you do an integrated JUST because of this. But it may sway some of you wannabes. Will mean more people signing up for Oxford I guess.
Good luck.
MAX