Some modern votes in the Senate

Whilst most matters are determined by the Council, some major issues, in the form of Graces, reach Regent House for a vote. The vote is often by ballot but can be in person. If at least 50 members give notice of appeal, then the Grace is referred to the Senate.

The Senate also elects the Chancellor and the High Steward (the Chancellor's principal officer for legal duties - now obsolete in that respect). Voting is in person, so it is impractical for the Senate to meet frequently.

1887, 1897 & 1921 - admission of women to degrees
Special trains were laid on from London to bring thousands of MAs up to vote. The votes went against admitting women.
In 1947 the issue was raised again, in the Regent House, and was approved.
1922 - Regent House set up as part of University reform
1963 - Quintin Hogg, later Lord Hailsham, proposed for honorary Doctor of Law
The vote confirmed the award.
1992 - honorary Doctor of Letters proposed for Jacques Derrida - the "father" of deconstruction
The vote went 336 to 204 for the degree.
There was also a similar gathering at The Other Place when an honorary degree was proposed for Margaret Thatcher - MAs assembled to defeat it.


Cambridge : History