Also is there any likelyhood that they will just replicate more of BA's Gatwick routes allowing BA downsize naturally or is that just been cynical?
Given that one Wille Walsh was boss of EI then think you are pretty close to the mark.
Comes across as a rushed decision to try and claim still proactive and growing so FR shouldn't take us over.
Going back to SNN smacks of desperation and an attempt to buy politicians off. But given what they said when they exited it may not work.