51³Ô¹Ï

Des Browne's assertion that increases in visa extension charges for overseas students are to cover costs is not borne out by the figures.

The operating costs of the General Group - which administers the service - were just under ? million for 2003-04. We calculate that the 51³Ô¹Ï Office stands to raise at least ?47 million from the new charges from international students alone.

The Government's commitment to encouraging international students is welcome. The danger is that the good work is being undermined by unjustifiable charges.

Diana Warwick
Chief executive
Universities UK