Mesh - as always, thanks for your response and insight!!
I was aware of a couple from the current place of work getting the nod and being given hold pool places for the moment with a view to January/February start dates - so that makes sense. Thank you so much for clarifying the situation though!
Although, I suspect that the annoucement for the fleet renewal and expansion will go in the direction of Airbus in the end! Bearing in mind the cancellation of the 787 orders and what I've heard about the board still viewing Long Haul as being important enough to maintain a presence on the Long Haul routes, I can't help but feel that come the announcement, we'll hear something about A350s in Monarch markings!