An author and former ministerial advisor has urged people to "elect a Chancellor who represents you" after announcing he is running for the role at the University of Oxford.

Dr Kadira Pethiyagoda, who is also a former diplomat, said he could "advocate for the interests of Oxford staff, students and alumni" because he had been all three.

He said his priorities included "improving the economic conditions for staff and students," building a "closer-knit alumni community," and ensuring "free speech on important questions like foreign policy".

He also said he wanted to improve the "university’s treatment of non-human animals".

He added: "At a moment of greater tension, internationally and domestically, than any time since 1945, Oxford requires a Chancellor with the right balance of impartiality, relatability and standing.

"My background – spanning diplomacy, academia and politics – can help the university navigate an international education market vulnerable in an era where world war stands wait at the precipice of experience.

"I will represent Oxford to government, rather than represent government inside Oxford."

Dr Pethiyagoda, who helped to shape foreign policy as an advisor to the Shadow Cabinet, has also called for a debate to be held between the candidates - something which has not been done before.

Because the process is "significantly different to previous years," he said a debate would be "in the interests of democracy, transparency, and a more informed electorate".