Could all be nonsense, however my understanding is that late last year the GB Command Review Board met and decided 8 commands were required. 8 courses subsequently handed out with the first commencing begining Feb 08 with a view to the majority being completed before the handover date to easyJet.
One unfortunate chap wasn't successful on the course and it was deemed that 2 new bods were required. This created some stir as the guys selected did have seniority but there were major question marks about minimum experience levels. (For info min hours at GB for command was 4000 reduced to 3500 in exceptional circumstances and only with 3 years experience within the company) Others further down the list with more than enough hours (and successful pre-command training reports) were allegedly told to "quieten down"
Allegedly this course commenced at CTC in Southampton last week with one single trainer for all sims and examination. Upon completion of this course the 2 candidates are to return to RHS flying for 4-6 weeks until line training is available. One would assume that an LPC would be required again in the sim before the commencement of line training - whether this will be with another examiner thus solving the legalities of a single trainer doing the entire course or not is as yet to be determined.
Anyone looking for clarification should probably speak to his or her base captain and/or Balpa reps.