The Government's policy of cutting the number of international students risks damaging the economy at a time when growth is flatlining.

Today's figures showing that the UK economy barely grew in the first half of 2011 come at the same time as a report from MPs warning that plans to cut student visas will also cut one of the few growth areas in the economy by at least £3.6bn.

Teaching English to international students earned almost £2bn for the UK in 2008-09, according to new research commissioned by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

The UK Border Agency have published their proposed new criteria for HTS today and have launched a consulation on the proposals.

Changes have been made to the UK Border Agency approved list of secure English language tests, including lower minimum score requirements for student visa applicants taking PTE Academic.