Quote From bewildered:
I don't know if you realise but external examiners get paid very little (usually c. £150 and then taxed as a second income at 50% i.e. a lot less than minimum wage given the time commitment)
Is that how it works? I thought it was just included as part of the job as an academic, with all expenses paid for. It makes sense though as to why most supervisors pick their mates!