My Experiences
Flown out of LGW and LHR equally often. LGW is far faster. (and they do have more locos!)
"Laptops out" - I'm used to it as US has been doing it for quite a while - doesn't seem to cause a problem there.
"All the carry-on electronics" - I want my mobile to call when I arrive to arrange pickup. CD/MP3 player for departure lounge, baggage "long wait" and if I don't like the movie(s) on the flight. Plus tiny camera, Flash stick etc. However, the printer (I carry a "mobile office!) is packed securely in my "checked" in the middle of a bunch of clothes for extra padding!
Not that I actually use the laptop in flight, but I don't trust that (and the data on it) to the "handlers" (human/mechanised) of baggage!
BAA - you've a job you're paid to do, you make enough out of "so-called duty-free sales" - don't whinge!