was there really any chance of the RN getting the Hawkeye and Grayhound even if CVF had gone ahead as CTOL?
None whatsoever. The E2 comes in at $230m, add on the extra's and its unfordable. The E2 has been tested with a ski jump and the engine upgrade since would improve it capabilities in STOBAR. But give the UK's history of re-using ancient radars over and over, in re-used aircraft I can't believe they would be willing to spend $20million. The Merlins are 'free'.
Personally I think developing something like the a-160 hummingbird is a better long term strategy. I hope Boeing persist with it. 20 hours at 250FL and $20million each, impressive if they can get it reliable.