Well, there was no compunction to retain funds in an account in those days, so I imagine that money has long since been spent. But I agree with you. For GBP 17T or so, of much more concern to me is the rate at which funds are transferred. The 800b on my account went in at just over 46 a few years ago. The rate is now bumbling around 41/42, so to do monthly transfers at that rate plus charges is more costly.
I can live on other savings plus low top ups but unlike with monthly transfers I can sit there and wait for an appreciation in the rate.
Heineken is right that savings rates are better in the U.K. but even they are slipping right back gradually. On GBP 17,000 it's hardly a king's ransome.
And there are other factors like convenience, legality, quick access to funds, opening UK fixed deposits etc.
It's really horses for courses and everyone has different needs, so I wouldn't criticize anyone's methods. If the exchange rates plummet or they change the rules I might think differently but at the moment I'm content with my situation.