Danny,
Our crew room at LGW also has a big list in clear view for everyone to read. The list does NOT include pens. My flight case probably had about 6 in it, and one in my shirt pocket as I went through security. All colleagues similar story, as well as the laptop, which was not required for work use. No problems with mobile phones for crew members either - I carried my own plus company phone, all crew carried their own through.......
Perhaps standards differ between terminals even? We were using the security facilities supplied by BA at Jubilee House. It is not manned by BAA security, but by a contractor to BA. I really can't fault either their practicality, or their attitude. Yes we were all properly hand searched, shoes x-rayed etc, so dft standards are being maintained, but in a practical way to those working airside.
Haven't used any other UK airport yet so can't comment. One thought though, perhaps I could take through stacks of pens at LGW North, then flog em to you all coming through the south 'penless'......
30W