 In the February 1971 rectorial election, he narrowly defeated Michael Parkinson, the broadcaster, by 8 votes after a disputed recount.Ustinov’s name was given to a room in the University's Bonar Hall, which houses a sculpture of him.Ustinov was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D) degree by the University in 1969, the only Rector to have received this honour during his term of office.