First Choice are recruiting, but we don't know what kind of contracts will be offered - there is a possibility that the company will try and get away with "Part Year" contracts again - that is, you work all the hours God sends in the summer and then take the winter off. And yes, you're right, you get 1/2 the going rate. Except they spread it over 12 months to help you get a mortgage.
So if you need a proper job, be careful to check what you are being offered.
FCA as a company are making loads of money, but the pilots have probably the worst Terms and Conditions amongst the UK Charters. Pay is OK but the rest of the package was seriously eroded after Sep 11th and is still not back to that level.
ie. no block window protection, early starts after days off, rubbish leave system, etc. etc.
Command time is looking long - the airline contracted after Sep 11th and the last Command Short List I saw was at least 2 pages long. With only around 10 retirements a year, huge expansion is the only way you'll see a command.
Any other specific questions?