BA = GSS = BA
The problem is that GSS is basically a front for BA. They won't move without the nod from BA. BA are too slow to give them the nod! In order to OK such an expensive lease they need to hold an extraordinary board meeting. Due to the "intensive" work commitments of the board members (i.e for all their other Companies!!) this takes a while to organise. By the time they agree to it, it's always too late to secure the planes.
A sensible managment might sign a MOU so that the next time an aircraft comes up for lease, there is no need to go through the process. This would of course mean that they would be unable to manipulate the situation as they currently do. Any delay in their decision means that there is no aircraft available by the time they say yes. This then means that they can go to the weak and feeble DofT and CAA and force the issue. QED. No need to ever expose themselves.
As for these superb defenders of our standards??? They are so weak that they happily give away much of the work that should be done by UK/EU nationals within our borders. Does anyone know if MY Travel still have their 3 Canadian A320's flying with Canadian pilots (of course) on their "temporary" contract? They used to stay in the UK all year but move round a base between seasons to get around the "not normally for more than a season" wording.
Why would anyone pay £60k+ for an ATPL?
With the continual abuse of these regulations they may never see meaningful employment in this country. A bit of an exaggeration perhaps but a valid point. This simply does not happen in other countries with stronger political will. Where it does, it is to a much lesser extent.
We may work in a global industry but whilst the craven "men in suits" give in to airlines who play with semantics to manipulate the regulations, we are all losers. We must be proactive and be willing to stand up for our future and that of the aspiring pilots of tomorrow.