Established in 2019, the Prais Lecture typically examines issues relating to productivity, economic growth and human wellbeing. It was formed to commemorate Professor Sig Prais, a colleague, friend and champion of the National Institute for Social and Economic Research (NIESR) for over 60 years. The core focus of his research was on productivity and industrial structure, where he concluded that the poor quality and education were at the root of the UK’s productivity problem. Past speakers include Lord Sainsbury, and Bart van Ark from The Productivity Institute.
Our 2021 speaker is Professor Sheilagh Ogilvie, Chichele Professor of Economic History, All Souls College at University of Oxford.