The rate on HSBC e-isa is 1.75% according to this site.

I see that overnight that First Direct have admitted defeat and the rate has been cut for new businss to 2% fixed until June next year.

I have been in touch with First Direct to find out why the cheque has not been creditted and received the "too busy" excuse again and again and again.

As this rate is fixed until May 2009 they may well have said that they will take the maximum possible time to transfer when the fixed rate runs out as they will only pay 0.1% following.

I was supposed to accept that they were being generous by giving me interest back to the day they received the cheque. I can't see why that is generous it is only what a customer should expect.

Anyway as this is an instant access I will be able to start the transfer going in April 2010 or as soon as a better offer comes up.

As for First Direct and their Legendary Customer Service the question is what service?