I just did a partner redemption for CX and IB flights after their enhancement. I checked the availability on ba.com beforehand.

I used to be able to just email them my preferences and they'll reply with a tentative PNR. Not anymore. I got a response from them 4 days after my initial email that they can only process requests made from their webpage. Did that and they replied back with on-hold booking in 1-2 days. What's new is they now tell you how much the fee will be in their reply, and let you process payment on qatarairways.com without calling or visiting their office.