A CALL to strip the sultan of Brunei of an honorary degree has been made from two Oxfordshire MPs.

UPDATE: Oxford University speaks out after Brunei anti-LGBT fury

Oxford West and Abingdon MP Layla Moran and Oxford East MP Anneliese Dodds have written to Oxford University urging the move after Brunei, a nation on the island of Borneo, introduced strict new Islamic laws.

The new measures that have been introduced implement stoning to death under anti-LGBT laws.

Homosexuality was already illegal in Brunei and punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Ms Dodds said: "Brunei’s new anti-LGBTQ+ laws are shocking, and it is right that there has been such an overwhelming backlash against these measures.

"I want to send a clear message of solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community in Brunei, and that is why Layla and I have sent this letter today."

The letter written to the Vice Chancellor and Registrar of Oxford University today urge them to strip the Sultan of Brunei of his honorary degree.

The honorary doctorate of civil law was awarded to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in 1993.

It comes after the laws, the Sharia penal cos, were implemented on Wednesday.

The laws also cover a range of other crimes including theft being punishable by amputation.

In the days since, there has been international outrage and calls for the country to reverse course.

Ms Dodds continued: "It is very disappointing that the University of Oxford has not taken steps to rescind its award of an honorary degree to the Sultan of Brunei, which would send a strong message that the University condemns any attempts to restrict the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ people.

"I urge them to think again, and rescind the award.”

Ms Moran added: "Refusal to rescind the degree allows the University’s name to continue to be tied to gross violations of human rights and implies a tacit endorsement of a man who would have their LGBTQ+ students and colleagues stoned to death.

"Almost 50,000 students, alumnae and those from the Oxford community have now signed the petition asking the University to rescind the degree.

"The Vince Chancellor and Registrar must listen to them and to their hearts.

"I urge Oxford University to do the right thing."

A petition has also been set up in Oxford against the move and attracted almost 50,000 signatures.

It says: "LGBTQ+ people from Brunei are now at risk of being killed for their sexualities and gender identities, undoubtedly leading many to flee the country and fear for their lives."

It adds: "As a world renowned institution, the University should not be linked such legislation and must take a clear stance in opposition to the Sultan's actions."

By the time this newspaper went to print the petition had gained 49,681 signatures.

One commenter said: "The use of stoning is barbaric and should not be condoned, whether by the nation or a university."

Oxford University has been approached for comment.

The petition http://bit.ly/2YPeXsk