If it suits EZY to come to Manchester in terms of economics, re fees, slots etc then come they will.The Liverpool - Manchester situation in this regard is the same as Gatwick - Heathrow.
In the South East if given the option , airlines will always want Heathrow but if push comes to shove they opt for Gatwick as next best thing, then if really desperate Stansted.
In the North West same applies, Liverpool has no catchment area to the North West (Irish Sea) and not much to the West (Wales)...to the East its main catchment point includes it's biggest rival...its pax use it not because of loyalty because it is cheap.
If the same fares were available at Manchester they would come there instead, its simple supply and demand.
Unless the rates for landing at Liverpool are ridiculously low or free it is inevitable that they will end up at MAN if they get the option.
That then begs the question if you have 2/3 based aircraft and w sectors from other airports why not then move the whole operation over to MAN.
If there is a suggestion of court action clearly Liverpool/Peel must be aware of this as well ? Incidentally how can Liverpool become all pompous and demand this 50 miles exclusion ? They peeeed on Easyland by welcoming Ryanair 2 years back....what goes round comes round !
P.S. .....anybody know what the fees for landing at Liverpool actually are ?