On non-standard product by the way. 3-4-3 on the 777. I remember operating on it as a substitute for the standard 3 class (at the time) and we needed dispensation from the unions to do it. Read into that what you will.
As for direct report at LCY. I can remember when we had a WW base at LGW, if we ever picked up a LHR trip (which did happen) we still had to report at LGW even if we lived closer to LHR, even if you were diff crew and had no other crew to meet at LGW. Apparently it was because it was in the agreement and couldn't be changed. I know SF LGW is a different agreement to WW but it does make you wonder.