With reference to the LPL/MAN situation, easyJet signed a 20 year exclusivity deal with LPL that barred them from operating from any other North West airport. The deal was rushed through in order to be completed before the company was floated - it was actually signed on the night before the company was listed. By my calculation, the deal will be effective until around 2020! Easyjet's argument is that the contract is invalid as it is a restraint of trade and against EU law. The soundness of this argument is what is now in the hands of the lawyers.
I would love to see easyJet build on the GB Manchester operation and emulate their LGW success in the North West.