To be on the fair side, our third purser isn't going anywhere for the time being except to the upper deck.
Most flights on the 16th of November will depart as scheduled with one less crew onboard. That's the reality. We will get on with our lives whether we like it or not.
WW Scheduling Agreement does indicate about full crew complement but the question is how many SCCM have the guts not to operate. Those refusing to do so will probably find themselves in serious trouble. Despite that it is in the agreement, I think they have to be careful over their decision.
I am also convinced that BA has looked into this VERY carefully and know what they are doing. I'm not very fond of either, which I'm sure not many people are, but no parties seem to be getting anywhere due to several reasons. This is the consequence.