It is highly unlikely that control columns would have made any difference. Go and read the accident report on the Airborne Express DC8 stall crash which involved control columns - they didn't make any difference to the outcome. Absorb that report and remember it before you post - the control column is another red herring. A proper and comprehensive instrument scan and properly executed CRM are what would have helped. The fact that (as Dozy identified) no one asked is highly significant and indicates a serious breakdown in communication at a vital time, just when communication should be clear and frequent.