"It is only now that we can see the full picture showing the extent of the UK's success in global recruitment, particularly from some of the world's most important emerging economies, " she said.

BBC: More overseas students 'found'

However, given the full extent of unrealized bad debts in Europe, it is hard to see why anyone should rule out depositor levies being imposed elsewhere in the future.

FORBES: Cyprus Deposit Levy: No Panic Yet But Scary Long-Term Consequences