I think the insurence companies in GB are really ripping you all off.
I don't believe young people in GB are involved in that many more collisions then the young people here in the Netherlands.
I'm kinda lucky because I'm studying medicine. I can get insurance through a organisation for doctors with special discount for students. Age does not influence the quote and students get an extra 2 years no-claim to total 62,5% discount on full price.
Example Subaru Impreza GT Turbo '99 €478,50 per year, for 21 year old with no previous insurance.
After three years without any claims it would be €319
It's just that I have no need for a car now and fuel and road-tax is so expensive.
I'd still want one though, just a bit excessive.