Background
Harris was born in Fulham, the son of Richard Reader Harris and Elsie (née Tagen).
Harris was born in Fulham, the son of Richard Reader Harris and Elsie (née Tagen).
He was Chairman of Rolls Razor Limited, which made washing machines. In July 1964 the company went bankrupt, and a 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.
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.
Harris died on 7 July 2009, aged 96 years.
39th United Kingdom Parliament. 40th United Kingdom Parliament. 41st United Kingdom Parliament.
42nd United Kingdom Parliament.
43rd United Kingdom Parliament. 44th United Kingdom Parliament]
He was Member of Parliament for Heston and Isleworth from 1950 until 1970.