G-BOAC is not being rude; just sensible. If everyone got into the lounge, it would be crowded and loose its exclusivity as a haven at an airport.

In India, everyone claims to be a VIP so preference service is now only accorded to VVIPs. In the US, everyone wants to be a Gold member, which is why AA has Executive and Executive Plat. Benefits are limited in supply and go to those who contribute most to the profits of the company that supply the benefits.

BA F, SQ F (& SQ Suites) and CX F can be a joy to fly since these airlines never upgrade so the crew have more time to provide a dedicated service. US airlines will also have a full F cabin due to free upgrades. Fine for the pax who are upgraded but not so fine for full fare paying pax who do not get as much privacy and exclusivity that they thought they were paying for.