Reader Harris

Richard Reader Harris (born 4 June 1913) is a former British Conservative Party politician. He was Member of Parliament for Heston and Isleworth from 1950 until 1970.

Harris was Chairman of Rolls Razor Ltd, which made washing machines. In July 1964 the company went bankrupt, and subsequent investigation revealed irregularities in the company's accounts. In 1969, Harris was charged with carrying on company business with intent to defraud the company's creditors, falsifying the balance sheet, and deceiving investors as to the company's financial state. "Seven men excused at MP's trial", "The Times", 8 April, 1970, p. 2.]

With his trial ongoing as the 1970 general election was called, and despite the Judge dismissing two charges, the Heston and Isleworth Conservative Association voted to reject Harris and selected instead Barney Hayhoe. On 29 May, Harris was acquitted on the remaining charge; although time remained for his readoption, the Association stuck to its previous choice.

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