Five university chiefs who earn more than the prime minister have received awards in the New Year’s Honours list, it emerged last night. Including high-earning Janet Beer (pictured), vice-chancellor of Liverpool University, who will become a dame
Five university chiefs who earn more than the prime minister have received awards in the New Year’s Honours list, it emerged last night.
The university bosses, who earn £1.2million between them, have been rewarded for their services to education.
The decision is likely to raise further questions about the excessive perks provided to those who work at the top of academia.
Leading the honours is Janet Beer, vice-chancellor of Liverpool University, who will become a dame.
Professor Beer earns over £363,000 – more than twice Theresa May’s salary – including a £52,600 bonus.
Joy Carter, vice-chancellor of the University of Winchester, was also appointed a CBE.
During her tenure one in eight students have dropped out and the university has fallen 20 places in the Times Good University Guide in two years, The Times reported.
Four years ago staff threatened to strike after she was awarded a £28,000 rise. She currently benefits from a pay package of over £280,000.
An OBE has also been awarded to Clive Behagg, former vice-chancellor of the University of Chinchester, who earns £197,662, and Margaret Ann House, vice-chancellor of Leeds Trinity University, who is paid £193,328 and enjoys a grace-and-favour home.
Antony Chapman, former vice-chancellor of Cardiff Metropolitan University, also receives an OBE.
He was given a package worth £276,000 during his last full year in charge and according to the University and College Union (UCU), only flew in first or business class.
Last month the UK’s highest-paid university vice-chancellor resigned over accusations that she was overpaid.
Dame Prof Glynis Breakwell, who was vice-chancellor of the University of Bath, became the target of sharp criticism when it emerged she was earning £468,000 – which former Education Minister Lord Adonis described as ‘shameless and outrageous’.