G'day PGA,
No idea re #1.
#2. Have a look at Carphone Warehouse for a guide comparison. Personally, I just do pay as you go.
#3. BALPA do stuff like that. I usually just surf the net. Try Direct Line or someone like that.
#4. Tax. It's usually PAYE. (Pay as you earn). The
tax department has a website and the scales are there.
#5. Renting. Get numbers/contact details for your references. You'll need them. We're renting at the moment, plan to buy this year (finally earn enough)
#6. Some do, some don't. Look around.
#7. Cost and temperature usually. The further south you are the "warmer" it is but it usually costs a lot more. In the north you'll have more hills to climb and explore. It depends on what you enjoy doing.