AT ANDREWS University has confirmed it is in the early stages of planning for the award of a Doctor of Laws to film star Michael Douglas.

The university was forced into a premature announcement after the star let the cat out of the bag while talking about his new film.

It is expected the honour will be bestowed during one of this June’s graduation ceremonies.

Dr Brian Lang, principal and vice-chancellor, said the doctorate is being given in recognition of the actor’s outstanding contribution to British film.

He said, “A major figure in contemporary cinema, he is a major film producer, movie actor and frequent visitor to St Andrews.

“The event will be all the more timely given the forthcoming, official launch of the university’s department of film studies.”