The King and senior University figures took part in the 40-minute long ceremony at the Sheldonian Theatre. During the ceremony the University’s Public Orator, Professor Richard Jenkyns, presented King Harald V to the Chancellor and explained, in Latin, why he was awarded the honorary degree. The Chancellor, Lord Patten of Barnes, then deliver a short welcome address, before the King made a speech where he expressed his deep gratitude and honour on receiving the degree. He also outlined his personal attachment to the university where he was a student at Balliol College from 1960-1962 studying economics and political science. He was a keen rower during his time at the college and became an Honorary Fellow of Balliol College in 1983. His father, King Olav V of Norway also studied at Balliol, matriculating in 1924. He was awarded an honorary degree by Oxford in 1937 whereas King Haakon VII of Norway received a DCL by Diploma in 1943.
"My father King Olav also attended Balliol College, and treasured the memories from Oxford throughout his lifetime," the King said. "Having heard of his stay in this enchanting town, - how could I but follow in his steps? I can assure you that I never regretted that decision, and I enjoyed every day on campus. However, my father and I were not the first Norwegian royals educated in England. The first was probably Haakon, the son of Harald Fairhair, who was sent to the court of the English King Athalstan in the year 960. Thus I followed up a more than thousand year tradition when I arrived at Balliol."
The King continued on to say that British universities have a special attraction for Norwegian scholars and scientists as thousands of Norwegians have received higher education in the United Kingdom. "This country has, as a matter of fact, educated more Norwegians at university level than any other country outside Norway. Today, 28 out of approximately 3000 Norwegians studying in the United Kingdom are studying here at Oxford."
The King also highlighted the importance of Scandinavian studies and his hopes that these courses would survive. "Courses on Norwegian subjects at British universities have constantly spread the knowledge about my country to young people. History shows that many British alumni from these studies have made the most excellent ambassadors for Norway when they have taken their places in civic and working life. It is my hope that Scandinavian studies will continue to be an option for British students in the years to come. Financial pressures and changes in syllabuses have, however, made it more difficult for smaller departments and languages to survive. Today only two universities in the United Kingdom offer courses giving in-depth knowledge about Scandinavia to its students."
The close links between the UK and Norway was also mentioned by the King who referred to the countries' cooperation in the political, technological and economical fields as well as strong historical ties. “When Norway was occupied from 1940 to 1945, Britain gave refuge to the Norwegian Royal Family, our Government and thousands of Norwegians eager to defend the values we share, namely “freedom, democracy and human rights”. When the war ended in 1945 Norway was exhausted and partly destroyed after five tough years. In this situation Britain opened up its universities and technical colleges for a great number of Norwegian students. You extended your assistance and made valuable contribution rebuilding our country. For all of this, we are ever grateful,” The King said.
“Some years later, but in the same context, I was privileged enough to spend some wonderful and stimulating semesters in this country. For me, as well as for a number of fellow Norwegian students, this opportunity turned out to be of great importance. To day the memories has been renewed and the ties strengthened. I thank you again for the honour I have received here today.”
For the King’s full speech, click here.
HM The King of Norway after the ceremony in Oxford.
Photo: Keith Hammet