Oxford University has hit back over a report made about the vice chancellor's £3.5m residence, which was described as being 'rent-free'.
An article published by youth news and entertainment publication The Tab this week states that Professor Irene Tracey, vice chancellor (VC) at the institution, is living 'rent-free' at a city abode.
The Victorian mansion, owned by Oxford University, is provided to each VC as part of their role and, as stated previously, is a contractual requirement.
When asked about the report, which brought attention to Professor Tracey's £410,000 base salary amid the lack of a residence cost, the university took issue with some of The Tab's claims.
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A spokesperson for Oxford University stated that, despite the publication claiming that the VC has been "criticised", it is not said by whom or what for in the piece.
Similarly, the representative added that The Tab "incorrectly refers" to the university as covering the rent.
This is stated to be wrongly reported as there is no rent on the city property given that the institution owns it.
The Tab adds that Prof Tracey was awarded £573,000 in her first year as VC, while she also received an accommodation payment of £100,000.
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This is not the first time that the VC's three-storey residence has been brought to public attention with apparent scrutiny.
Back in 2017, Professor Tracey's predecessor, Professor Louise Richardson, was criticised for her salary while residing at the property without having to pay costs.
The Times discovered that Oxford University had paid a total of £116,406 in refurbishments to get the abode ready for her to move into.
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