Not sure what Shuttleworth is on but minimum rest in BA is 12:30 mins (BLR 10.5) from chocks on to report. No matter what the delay you should NEVER be reducing rest below this minimum. BLR are there for your protection and take into account the nightmare that is operating out of LHR. Scheme/CAP371 doesn't take the usual LHR delay into account. Be responsible and know the rules and the reason why they are different from CAP371. Only in some of the Scandic lands does this mean that a couple of beers aren't possible. Maybe time to go and review the rules again Shuttleworth.
Most night stops are on average about 16-17hrs which gives plenty of time for a few social beers and a meal.
(edited to add that all the "newbies" I've flown with have been a very easy going and keen to learn bunch. Even though most have a relatively low number of hrs (<3500hrs) they have all been competent operators and seem to interact well with the crew. Seems the selectors are picking the right guys. I say guys cos are there ANY females in this intake?)