Sky9 sums it up quite well
Politics The aircraft only flew because the French forced the then (British)government of the day to see the project through.
If RB wants some why doesn't he have the AF ones as they will stop flying at the end of May.
I wonder if it's to do with the mod state?????
Who will pay for the crown skin replacement work? I doubt if RB could afford it and the phase 2 life extension will also be due very shortly on the BA aircraft!
I would imagine that RR would also like to can the Olympus 593 another '50s technology, and as for the avionic suite, more 50s and 60s stuff that is beginning to sadly show it's age.
Just a few points.
Don't get me wrong I think it's a beautiful looking piece of kit and am going to try for a ride in June.