Lord Paul to become first Chancellor of Westminster University

London, Mar 4 (UNI) Lord Paul is to become the first Chancellor of the University of Westminster, London.

The non-executive role will see him represent the university and promote its interests. Raised to the peerage as Baron Paul of Marylebone in 1996, he said, ''I am looking forward to developing this new role as Chancellor at the University of Westminster. I am passionate about the benefits of education and the mission at Westminster, with its strong emphasis on international partnerships, fits perfectly with my vision''.

''Universities such as Westminster, with its commitment to diversity and multiculturalism, can be a positive vehicle for change. I am very much looking forward to representing it, both in the UK and internationally, Lord Paul added.

As a post-1992 university, Westminster has no tradition of having a chancellor role but Vice-Chancellor Dr Geoffrey Copland is confident the move will bring great benefit. ''The university is honoured that Lord Paul has agreed to be our first Chancellor. He has been a strong supporter over the years and his commitment to diversity and to international education and partnerships is well known. He has displayed a strong commitment towards education as a vehicle for opportunities for personal and professional development, with an emphasis on widening participation and equality,'' he said.

''I believe that we cannot find a better advocate of our mission and look forward to working closely with him to promote not just the university but all that we stand for,'' Dr Copland said.

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