The LHR base got up thanks to the SH union president??? wow. 1 person. Thats some power she must have had.
So your union must be very weak if a union member from a different division can make decisions on your behalf!
As far as your SH mates complaining that they dont like the longer flying and whinging then why are they doing those flights? ALL regionals are still quite senior - yes, even the BOM trips. People on international flights are there because they want to be.
And you say about longer hours? We are still only working 123hrs/mth.