For what it is worth, have it from a super authorative BA source, they will soon be introducing a lifetime reward programme to enhance long term loyalty. Probably lifetime Gold for people who have been Gold for 10+ years - details still to be ironed out, but coming out soon ....
Aaargh - I've been Gold since 1996 and am about to lose it next month
just my luck if they introduce something like that just after I get downgraded