William Hague has beaten Peter Mandelson to become chancellor of the University of Oxford. It was announced on Wednesday that the former Conservative Party leader, 63, has been elected. Earlier this month he warned former Labour spinner Mr Mandelson could not be both the UK’s next ambassador to the US and chancellor.

Former Conservative leader William Hague has been elected chancellor of Oxford University, beating Labour peer Peter Mandelson among others to the job. With two people left in the final round of voting,

Lord Hague refuted his competitor for the chancellor of the University of Oxford's claim that the role is purely 'ceremonial'.In the exclusive interview, Lord Hague also emphasised his belief that Peter Mandelson cannot do the role and be ambassador to the US.

Mr. Hague, a former leader of Britain’s Conservative Party, was chosen in a vote by his fellow alumni to lead the elite university.

Former foreign secretary and Conservative Party leader William Hague has been elected as the new chancellor of the University of Oxford. Lord Hague, who graduated from Magdalen College in 1982, will be formally inaugurated into the predominantly ceremonial role in the new year.

William Hague has realised his dream to return as boss of his favourite educational establishment – that's Oxford University, not Wath-upon-Dearne Comprehensive.