chornedkorksnak,
I would not want to rest my knees between that of another passenger - depending on their looks of course!
Joking aside, I do not believe this seating config gave any assistance in an emergency situation.
Bear in mind, the situation to which I refer occured before the BA accident at Manchester since when the seating arrangements around the exits has been revised to allow a faster egress in an unfortunate event.
The arguments about rear facing seats are numerous. Greater strength of the seats is required resulting in extra weight, something the airlines are keen to avoid. There is also the issue of falling debris from the overhead lockers and (so I have heard) debate over the issue of injuries sustainable by lateral forces on an aft facing passenger.
I am sure this debate will go on for years to come.