Gresham Cooke

Roger Gresham Cooke (26 January 1907 – 22 February 1970), usually known as Gresham Cooke, was a British Conservative Party politician. He was the son of Arthur Cooke,[1] senior surgeon to Addenbrooke's Hospital.[2] A brother was Nicholas Gresham Cooke.

Early life

[edit]

Cooke joined the British Road Federation as secretary in 1935, later becoming Chairman of its Highways Committee.[3] After the war, in 1946, he was appointed director of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, a representational role which he held during a difficult period for the UK's economy and motor industry until 1955.[3]

Political career

[edit]

Cooke was Member of Parliament for Twickenham from 1955 until his death aged 63 in 1970. No by-election was held after his death, as the 1970 general election followed only four months later, in which Toby Jessel was elected as Cooke's successor.

Personal life

[edit]

Cooke married Rosalie Anne, daughter of J.R.H. Pinckney in 1934.[4][5] His grandson is the journalist and environmental activist George Monbiot.

Other activities

[edit]

A few days before he died Cooke was lobbying for Britain's motor racing achievements to be commemorated through a special issue of postage stamps.[3]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Marriages", The Times, 19 July 1934, pg. 17
  2. ^ "Obituaries", The Times, 15 March 1933, pg. 16
  3. ^ a b c Charles Bulmer, ed. (7 March 1970). "News: Obituary Mr Roger Gresham Cooke". Motor. No. 3, 533. p. 62.
  4. ^ "Marriages", The Times, 3 September 1934, pg. 15
  5. ^ Times Online.Obituary: Canon Hereward Cooke. Times Online. 7 January 2010.
[edit]
Parliament of the United Kingdom
Preceded by Member of Parliament for Twickenham
19551970
Succeeded by