Oxford University is encouraging students to use the gender-neutral pronoun 'ze' instead of 'she and 'he'.

The students' union wrote in a leaflet that the move was intended to reduce the risk of transgender students being offended.

Students hope that the use of ‘ze’ will continue into university lectures and seminars, reported The Sunday Times of London.

According to Oxford University's behaviour code, using the wrong pronoun to define a transgender person is an offence.  

Peter Tatchell, an LGBT rights campaigner, told MailOnline: 'It is a positive thing to not always emphasise gender divisions and barriers. 

'It is good to have gender-neutral pronouns for those who want them but it shouldn't be compulsory.

'This issue isn't about being politically correct or censoring anyone. It's about acknowledging the fact of changing gender identities and respecting people's right to not define themselves as male or female. 

'Giving people the 'ze' option is a thoughtful, considerate move.'

Cambridge University made the indication that they also wanted to move in a similar direction.