PJ - unfortunately the 'on-time' management/bonus-driven culture is wide-spread. A few years back at LGW I was 'preparing' for 'ready-for-flight' with pax still boarding when I heard the forward (737) door slam shut and seconds later a harrassed purser rushed in to tell me the dispatcher had 'pushed' the last few pax in, shut the door in her face and was removing the jetty (aka 'on-time' for him/aka 'delay now down to Captain'). I duly vacated my seat, opened the door and summoned him back for 'a chat' - but that is what we
were up against - and it messed up his 'Christmas turkey' I think
.