Callsign Kilo- apparently not. Historically, BA required those who fell out of the hold pool to undergo the full assessment procedure again with no priority. Over a beer with one of the recruiters it was established that this has not changed as it deemed important to provide a level playing field. Although this will be seen as a ball ache, if you have done it once then you obviously have the requisite skills BA want.
WRT slots, I heard the same info as Super Stall, with a slight twist in that delays to the 78 are impacting on the schedule of other MH/LH types. Consequently there is some number crunching going on as more people will be required on those fleets. Early 2014 is the best assessment. The outlook is positive, it just depends on whether you can make the time frame fit. Best of British to you all.