What did I want them to do? Acknowledge the problem and state that it would be reported for correction - not say "I can't open it either" and walk away. All conversations were held with the purser who was the highest flight member I felt it was appropriate to talk to in this situation. No "extra" life jacket was offered (and this was a flight over water)

If my seat being reclined and blocking the emergency egress of the passenger behind me during takeoff isnt important, then I'd be happy for them not to bother me to lock it in upright all the rest of the time.

As for service recovery perhaps I've been spoiled by UA who certainly would have offered at least an apology for one malfunction never mind three! No entertainment in a business class cabin is not the end of the world but no offer of any kind was made eg "perhaps you would like some newspapers or magazines".

Iam not sure that a genuine question about an airline I had held in great esteem should generation such comments as "did I expect them to hold the flight".
More importantly (and ESP in light of the next days event on CX) I would really like to know if anyone has any inside info on the view of Cathay as to how important maintainence issues are ...........