Oxford University Elects William Hague as Chancellor

William Hague, who previously served as foreign secretary and leader of the Conservative Party, has been chosen as the next chancellor for the University of Oxford. Lord Hague, an alumnus of Magdalen College, having graduated in 1982, is scheduled for formal inauguration into this largely ceremonial capacity early next year. He is set to take over from Lord Patten, becoming the 160th individual to occupy this office across its 800-year history. Lord Hague stated, “I regard being elected as the Chancellor of our university as the greatest honour of my life.” The position, which spans a decade, is decided by a vote involving the university’s alumni, alongside its current and former employees, with balloting conducted during November. Lord Peter Mandelson and Dominic Grieve, both former cabinet ministers, were eliminated during the initial stages of the election. Baroness Jan Royall, who is the outgoing principal of Somerville College in Oxford, was removed from contention in the third round. Lord Hague, having led the voting in all phases, secured victory in the decisive run-off against Lady Elish Angiolini, prevailing by a difference of 1600 votes. He commented: “My heart and soul are in Oxford and I will dedicate myself in the coming years to serving the university I love.” He further added, “What happens at Oxford in the next decade is critical to the success of the UK.” Professor Irene Tracey, the vice chancellor of the university, remarked: “William is a great friend to Oxford and is someone who I know will serve and represent this magnificent institution with dignity and vigour.” While a student, Lord Hague, who pursued studies in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics, held the presidency of the Oxford Union, the university’s renowned debating society. Subsequently, he emerged as a prominent figure in Conservative politics during the 1990s, assuming leadership of the party in 1997 when he was only 36 years old. However, he stepped down from that role in 2001, following a significant electoral loss to Tony Blair’s New Labour. A period of nine years later, he returned to government service, marking his first time back since the 1990s, serving on this occasion as foreign secretary for a duration of four years. His retirement from active politics occurred in 2015, concluding 26 years as the Member of Parliament for Richmond in North Yorkshire. Chris Patten, the incumbent chancellor, has occupied the role since 2003. Lord Patten, aged 80, served as the final Governor of Hong Kong from 1992 to 1997 and as chairman of the Conservative Party from 1990 to 1992.