Challenges in the Life of Peter Baker (British politician) in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 15, 2025

Life is full of challenges, and Peter Baker (British politician) faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Peter Baker was a British Conservative politician and soldier who served as the MP for South Norfolk. He is most notable for being the last MP to be expelled from the House of Commons following a conviction for forgery. Beyond his political career, Baker was also an author and publisher. His life and controversial expulsion from Parliament are believed to have inspired the character of Martin York in Muriel Spark's novel *A Far Cry From Kensington*.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

1943: Reconnaissance missions and illness

In late 1943, Peter Baker's squadron withdrew to Trani, where Baker developed abdominal pains. He was then flown back to Britain before Christmas and granted sick leave.

1944: Dispute over conservative candidate selection

In 1944, supporters of John Holt Wilson set up the South Norfolk Independent Conservative Association after a dispute over the previous selection.

March 1950: Falcon Press faces challenges

In March 1950, Falcon Press was struggling financially, and the company was described as "well on the rocks".

May 1954: Announcement not to seek re-election

In May 1954, Baker announced that he would not seek re-election due to ill-health, after suffering a nervous breakdown.

July 1954: Creditors Meeting

In July 1954, at a creditors' meeting, it was revealed that Falcon Press (London) Ltd. had a total deficiency of £290,823.

December 1954: Expulsion from the House of Commons

In December 1954, Peter Baker was expelled from the House of Commons following his conviction for forgery. On December 16, 1954, a motion was agreed upon to remove him.

December 1954: Expulsion

Peter Baker was expelled on 16 December 1954.

May 1955: Petition to Home Secretary

In May 1955, Baker petitioned the Home Secretary for a retrial, an appeal out of time, a public inquiry, or immediate release.

May 1955: Public examination in bankruptcy court

In May 1955, during the general election campaign, Baker was taken from prison to the Bankruptcy court for his public examination. He blamed his bankruptcy on the withdrawal of support by Sir Bernard Docker.

November 1955: Appeal Hearing Adjourned

On 21 November 1955, Baker's appeal hearing at the Court of Criminal Appeal was adjourned because his counsel was not prepared.

March 1956: Alleged Assurances of Release

In March 1956, Baker claimed that Hugh Quennell had assured him that the Home Office intended to release him by March 1956, which led Baker to withdraw his appeal.