For frequent long-haul flyers (when most corporate travel policies would allow business class), I concede that Gold might not be challenging.

But for frequent short-haul travellers based in the UK (who must contend with Y-only travel policies), BA Gold status might not be so trivial.

I do admit, however, that the crowds at rush hours in the T4 First Lounge make me think that there's a mismatch between capacity and the volume of Gold business.