Early Life and Education of Peter Baker (British politician): A Complete Timeline

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

An overview of the childhood and early education of Peter Baker (British politician), highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

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

April 1921: Peter Baker's birth

In April 1921, Peter Baker was born in Willesden, north west London. His parents were Major Reginald Poynton Baker and Gwendolyn Emily Christabel Baker née Webb.

March 1940: Officer training

In March 1940, Baker was posted to an Officer Cadet Training Unit in Catterick Garrison after enlisting in the Royal Artillery.

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.

April 1945: Liberation and return home

In April 1945, Baker was liberated from the punishment camp by the US Ninth Army. He drove a requisitioned Mercedes to Venlo, flew to Ghent, and then back to London.

June 1948: Marriage to Gloria Mae Heaton-Armstrong

In June 1948, Peter Baker married Gloria Mae Heaton-Armstrong, the daughter of Colonel Charles George William Stacpool Heaton-Armstrong, in Kensington.

January 1955: South Norfolk By-Election

In January 1955, a by-election was held in South Norfolk following Baker's expulsion, and John Hill was elected as the new MP.

1958: Wife and Children Moved to Australia

In the summer of 1958, Baker's wife and children moved to Australia without warning, leaving no address.

October 1959: Release from Wormwood Scrubs and Interview

On 23 October 1959, Baker was released from Wormwood Scrubs and gave an interview to the Daily Express, stating his intention to bring back his family.