The education sector here would undoubtedly consider with some envy the facts and figures trotted out this week to coincide with the arrival of Prince Harry at Eton.

The college, which is one of Britain's oldest and most exclusive public schools, has assets totalling £130 million: although fees at £13,947 per year are less expensive than rival Harrow (£14,295). A £1 million refurbishment was recently carried out on the school's art department and £2 million spent on extending the music facilities.

However, Eton is no longer the exclusive preserve of the landed aristocracy - some parents do own grouse moors but more own businesses and hold City directorships.