University of Buckingham
The University of Buckingham is the UK's only private University. It is very small and rightwing, though the Vice-Chancellor, Terence Kealey, prefers the label libertarian. The idea for the university germinated at the Institute of Economic Affairs, and it was founded in 1973 with the support of Harry Ferns and Ralph Harris. Its links with the IEA continue to this day, through publications, conferences, and shared staff members (Julian Morris and Dennis O'Keeffe).
During 2002, the University was in the process of starting up a new think-tank, the Centre for the Study of Liberty, for which it recruited several new members of staff - most notably Roger Scruton, Anthony O'Hear, Dennis O'Keeffe, and Chris Woodhead. Indications are that this think tank will be directed at promoting ideas regarding the liberalisation/privatisation of the British education system. [1]
Margaret Thatcher is a notable and vocal supporter of the University, having formally opening it in 1976, and having been its Chancellor from 1992 until 1998. The awards day at the University is called Thatcher Day. In November 2000, Margaret Thatcher's husband, Denis, was awarded an honorary degree by the university for being an "English gentleman" [2]
Selected Deparments / Staff
Economics and International Studies
- Mr Julian Morris (Visiting Professor)
- Mr Malcolm Rees
- Professor Martin Ricketts (Dean of School)
- Professor Norman Barry
- John Jewkes
Education
- Professor Anthony O'Hear
- Professor Roger Scruton
- Professor Chris Woodhead
- Professor Dennis O'Keeffe
Politics
- Professor Norman Barry
- Dr David Green (Visiting Professor)
- Dr Tim Stringer
References
- Buckingham welcomes Roger Scruton and Anthony O'Hear, Buckingham University news release, 17th September 2002
- Honorary degree for Sir Denis, BBC News Online, 10 November, 2000
- Woodhead turns professor , BBC News Online, 28 February, 2002
- Alex Harrison, Buckingham University Profile, The Guardian,November 6, 2003
