LONDON (AP) — Former U.K. Conservative Party leader William Hague has been elected chancellor of Oxford University, one of the most prestigious positions in British academia, the university said Wednesday.

William Hague, a former leader of the Conservative Party and foreign minister, was elected on Wednesday as the next chancellor of the University of Oxford, a largely ceremonial role which dates back centuries.

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.

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

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.

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