Exactly. Even now they're beginning to charge for having an account. Service is poorer. You have to pay to use some cash machines. Bank fraud is on the up.

I noticed a big exodus of academics to other countries, particularly Australia, while I did my degree and subsequent research. I didn't really think about it then, but now I know exactly why.

At Oxbridge:
College owned accomodation: £66 pw, ie, £264 pm, ie, £3168 pa
Three meals a day at college: £250 per term, ie, £1000 pa
Travel expenses (Oxbridge-London): £100 pm, ie, £1200 pa
Other stuff: £100 pm, ie, £1200 pa
Total per year: £6568

Which college are you at Jradetzky? I was at Jesus, and while I can't remember the exact figures, it was very good values indeed, especially when you consider the area.

Ok guys thanks a lot for your help - and an interesting discussion on economics!