How's this?
Ok, so last night, after pushback request 02L to avoid long, long taxi. Told "unable due string of arrivals". Less than 30 secs later, SQ (right next to us) requests 02L. Approved! So we ask if 02L is now available and are told "negative due to your departure routing". Another SQ then calls up and requests 02L - "Standby" was the response. I posted earlier that there was no favouritism of local carriers but what are your thoughts? Is this blatant favouritism or the Controller doing the best he can?