What does British business need to grow? The Provost talks to Rain Newton-Smith, Director General of the CBI, about the state of the UK economy and the role of business in shaping better policy. They discuss why investment has been too low, how regulation affects growth, the importance of skills and energy security, and what the CBI is doing to work with government, universities, and unions to support sustainable growth across the economy.

What can a 1,000-year-old mathematical problem teach us about the future of artificial intelligence? In this episode of Provox, the Provost speaks to the Sedleian Professor of Natural Philosophy Professor Jon Keating FRS, one of the world’s leading experts in mathematical physics. Together they explore the beauty of mathematics, the value of curiosity-driven research, and why ideas that develop without any obvious practical purpose can go on to transform the world. From prime numbers and quantum mechanics to machine learning and AI, this conversation reveals how asking fundamental questions can lead to extraordinary discoveries.

What does empire still have to do with Britain today? In this episode of Provox, the Provost speaks to Sathnam Sanghera about family, social mobility, empire, and the arguments that continue to shape modern Britain. Drawing on his books The Boy with the Topknot, Empireland, and Empireworld, Sathnam reflects on growing up in Wolverhampton, the legacy of empire, racism, and reparations, and why these issues remain so charged today.

Are we measuring the wrong things in the fight against climate change? In this episode of Provox, the Provost speaks to Professor of Economic Policy Sir Dieter Helm, one of Britain's leading environmental economists, about the realities of climate change, biodiversity loss, and the economics of sustainability. Together they explore why progress has proved so elusive, whether current policies are addressing the right problems, and how societies might balance prosperity with stewardship of the natural world.

Can a grass leaf help solve global food security? In this episode of Provox, the Provost speaks to Professor of Plant Development Jane Langdale about the science behind C4 photosynthesis and the ambition to make rice more efficient, resilient, and sustainable. They discuss how plants develop, why C4 rice could use less water and fertiliser, and the challenge of turning fundamental plant science into real-world impact

Can politics still take the long view? In this episode of Provox, the Provost is joined by former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt for a wide-ranging discussion on economics, healthcare, leadership, and the changing nature of public debate. Drawing on experiences at the highest levels of government, Hunt reflects on the challenges of balancing principle with pragmatism, navigating crises, and making decisions that can affect millions of lives.

How do you lead when everything is changing? In this episode of Provox, the Provost speaks to Baroness Sharon White about an extraordinary career at the intersection of public service, regulation, and leadership. From her Windrush family background in East London to senior roles in the civil service, the Treasury, Ofcom, and John Lewis, Baroness White reflects on ambition, public good, and leading through crisis. She also shares sharp insights on the Treasury, the role of regulators, and what it takes to steer major institutions through upheaval.

What can your gut bacteria teach us about fighting infection? The Provost talks to Barclay Williams Professor for Molecular Mucosal Immunology Emma Slack about the microbiome, mucosal immunity, and how the immune system works at our body surfaces. Professor Slack explains how her research is uncovering the relationship between gut bacteria and host defences, and how this could lead to safer alternatives to antibiotics and new ways to prevent invasive infections such as E. coli and sepsis.

 

What can an Oxford tutorial teach you about running a country? In this inaugural episode of Provox, the Provost welcomes former Cabinet Minister, broadcaster, writer, and economist Ed Balls for a wide-ranging conversation on economics, politics, and public life. Reflecting on lessons learned as students, they explore how ideas become policy, what makes governments succeed or fail, and the challenges facing Britain today.