March 9th 2017
Professor Stephen Hawking has been given Honorary Freedom of the City of London in recognition of his outstanding contribution to theoretical physics and cosmology.
Widely regarded as amongst the most distinguished and prolific scientists of his generation, Professor Hawking, who celebrated his 75th birthday last month, was presented with the City of London Corporation’s highest award at a ceremony at Guildhall this week.
During the ceremony, Dr Peter Kane, the Chamberlain of London, paid tribute to his outstanding achievements, before presenting him with his illuminated Freedom scroll (or ‘resolution’) in an inscribed casket. Professor Hawking gave a keynote speech to guests, who included Lord Mayor Andrew Parmley, the City’s Aldermen and the Court of Common Council, before answering questions submitted by students from the City’s schools and Academies.