Today saw two 442 configs but that is still fairly rare (twice this month).
I think this is the crux of why an upgrade wont happen for a while. Until there are a couple of months where the 442 seaters are used every day on both services, there is no need to upgrade further.
Rumour on another forum states QR are to announce Amsterdam from
summer 2011 and upgrade Barcelona plus other routes.
I think it will be a while until another Mid-east carrier will enter BHX, but QR will be better placed over EY as QR serve ATQ. You have to remember though, if QR came onto the market and offered lower fares, it could push out the likes of Mahan, Turkmenistan and Armavia. They have thrived at BHX due to no real low priced competition, having EK/QR knocking at your door will probably make them run.