FAQ The shake-up

What is all the fuss about?

Main plan is to replace 26-member governing council, of mostly academics, with seven outsiders and seven internal members plus Chris Patten. Supporters say business expertise and less cumbersome governance is needed. The university has a budget of £500m a year, with 25,000 staff and students. Endowments across the colleges equal £3.9bn

What’s wrong with the changes?

End of academic self-rule, with the lay council at the mercy of the executive. It is thought academics know best. Present checks and balances, including the veto of the 3,700-member don’s parliament, offer “better scrutiny” than an academic board with powers delegated by council

What’s the real problem?

Oxford is short of cash, despite its wealth. Advocates of change want a business-like approach; opponents say a system stacked in favour of the executive could steamroller through decisions

What happens next?

Licking of wounds if plan proceeds. If not, position of Oxford’s chancellor, Chris Patten, and vice-chancellor, John Hood, possibly precarious