The Sultan of Brunei (pictured) has been stripped of an honorary degree awarded by the University of Aberdeen in 1995

The University of Aberdeen has stripped the Sultan of Brunei of an honorary degree to protest his introduction of the death penalty for people who engage in gay sex.

It comes amid an international outcry over the nation's new Islamic criminal laws punishing gay sex and adultery by stoning offenders to death.

University of Aberdeen principal George Boyne said the Sultan's introduction of the new penal code is contrary to the institution's 'strong commitment to the value of diversity and inclusion'.

The university announced on Wednesday that it has revoked the Sultan's honorary degree - awarded in 1995 - in an unprecedented move following a vote by the senate, its academic body.

Professor Boyne said: 'The sultan was awarded an honorary degree by our university in 1995.

'It was given at a time when the university had operated a successful exchange programme with its counterpart in Brunei, and when the sultan had encouraged links between Brunei and Aberdeen due to his interest in our geology and petroleum engineering research.

There have been protests outside The Dorchester hotel in London, which is owned by the Sultan of Brunei

'In light of recent developments, the university undertook a review of how this award now fits with our values.

'Today I can inform you that the honorary degree has been revoked following a vote by senate, our academic body, which approved a recommendation from our honorary degrees committee.'

Professor Boyne said the university's process includes an opportunity for the sultan to respond to the recommendation, and that his response was considered by the senate and the honorary degrees committee.

He added: 'While it is deeply regrettable to be in this position, which is unprecedented for the University of Aberdeen, I fully support the decision.

'The University of Aberdeen is proud of our foundational purpose of being open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others.

'The introduction by the sultan of the new penal code is contrary to our strong commitment to the value of diversity and inclusion.'