wiggy,
"...if you're implying there's a link between the introduction of EASA FTLs into BA and the discontinuation of the UM scheme you've lost me...then again I'm easily confused."
I'm not suggesting there's a link, but with the new minimum rest periods on a relatively short (LH) sector, say JFK-LHR, and no adjustment of crew compliment, time available to conduct meal services will be tighter with less opportunity for other activities in the cabin. I appreciate that UM's don't take up much of a crewmembers time however it is an additional responsibility that, although I'm fairly certain an individual crewmember has no gripe with, perhaps their union has a view on? This is a personal opinion though and not based on any anecdotal evidence. Sorry to confuse.