Powers and Responsibilities

The General Council is responsible for electing the Chancellor of the University.

Three positions on the supreme governing body of the University - the University Court - are maintained for General Council Assessors.  These positions are filled by suitably qualified applicants following an open and transparent appointment process.

By statute, the General Council is required to meet twice per year to consider matters affecting the wellbeing and prosperity of the University.

The papers for these meetings are circulated to members in Billet.

The procedures for meetings of the General Council are laid out in the Constitutional Arrngements.

Each year, the Principal presents an annual report on the work of the University and its financial statement and responds to members' questions.

By statute, the General Council also has a consultative role in the making of University Ordinances and passing of Resolutions.  While there are guidelines and regulations for formal consultations, the value of informal exchange of comments and suggestions is well recognised on both sides.

The General Council elects a Business Committee which it empowers to act on its behalf between General Council meetings.