Interesting report, thanks.
The final bit is just so true.
BUT, the other side of the coin, there is plenty around if you are willing to look (& sometimes be game).
One of my UK based clients is a closet gay, and always employs young and beautiful women. I asked him on a recent rip over why doesn't he get an older PA and get more stability in his office... his reply was enlightening, he only employs the girls as showpieces, they don't stay because they don't really do anything and get bored. His real PA is a 65 year old lady who changes her voice and name (on the phone) every 3 months... same person for years... his mother !!
Nowadays I always get one of his "girls" to take me to a very long lunch (at their employers expense of course), and they normally will take the rest of the day (or two) off...with pay.