For me, it's another example of the way BA does business which leaves a nasty taste in my mouth.
Another one: I know someone who recently booked a return J (I) class (but with generous cancellation penalty) ticket from the UK to Australasia flying CX and NZ. She was able to choose her seats without having to pay extra for the privilege. (And all for a fare not dissimilar to what BA charges for restricted J to the US West Coast.)