Thursday was nearly as bad. Arrival rate limited to 18/hour so sectors could stay combined (3 staff instead of six).
The "Operational Requirement" euphemism won't work much longer, if it still does. Eventually everybody will know it means "Staff shortage and we're trying to cover it up".
The minister may not find out directly, but apparently the Airlines are asking pointed questions of ASA, and if they don't get answers that they like, will I'm sure be on to him.