William Michael Anthony Cecil, 8th Marquess of Exeter (born 1 September 1935), is a Canadian rancher, businessman, and peer.

Born in Kamloops, received education in rural Canadian and formal English schools before attending Eton College.

[1][2][3] Martin had immigrated to Canada in 1930 to manage the family's Bridge Creek Ranch, sized at around 15,000 acres (6,100 ha).

[3] After graduating from Eton, he managed a general store in 100 Mile House, taking over after his father.

[11] As a result, Michael inherited his titles and estate, becoming the 8th Marquess of Exeter, which entitled him to a seat in the House of Lords from 26 April 1989 to 11 November 1999, when the House of Lords Act 1999 was passed,[12] excluding all but ninety-two hereditary peers.

Due to his infrequent presence, he did not vote in the House, but stated that he had "some wisdom to contribute",[15] and that he was "listed as having things to say on environmental matters".[3]: n.pag.

[10]: B1  Unlike his father, which had promoted "placing spiritual authority in himself", Cecil decreased the hierarchy within the community and pushed democracy to its members.

Even though members of the commune credited Cecil with dismantling some hierarchy within the Emissaries of Divine Light, they viewed him as a "reluctant head" and believed that he was not fit for leadership.