The more I read here, the more I'm convinced that CP's is the best oneworld program to join. While I can't swear to it, CP does not seem to have all these restrictions and reduced mileage policies. Last week I flew LHR-HAM on BA, on a super discounted fare, and received the minimum 500 points for a 451 mile flight. According to my points statement, it was in "V" class, and was about 75% less than full fare economy.
And it showed up on my online statement less than 48 hours after the flight.
Regards,
Ken Hamer