The Australian government tried to get the airlines to face all seats (ie. pax seats) backwards on jets when they were first introduced here.
When my dad was in the army we flew back from Cyprus on an RAF Tristar where all the seats were rear facing. I wish I could remember it! I also have a safety card for an RAF VC10 and the brace position is just to sit upright in your seat. I think that this would be much more safer in an emergency especially if you are not prepared for it.