Background
Duncan was born at Alyth, Perthshire, the fourth son of James Duncan, a manufacturer and merchant, and was educated at the High School of Dundee.
Duncan was born at Alyth, Perthshire, the fourth son of James Duncan, a manufacturer and merchant, and was educated at the High School of Dundee.
He and Williamson were based in Valparaiso while Balfour looked after the Liverpool end of the business. He returned to England and lived at Gayton Hall in Cheshire where he was a J. P. and was also a director of the Royal Insurance Company. He was then elected to represent Liverpool Exchange which he held until his death later that year.
In 1856 Duncan married Catherine Williamson of Anstruther, sister of Stephen Williamson.
Their eldest son James was born in Valparaiso. James was also briefly Member of Parliament for Barrow-in-Furness.
23rd United Kingdom Parliament. 24th United Kingdom Parliament]
In 1885 he was elected as a Member of Parliament for Barrow-in-Furness, but was unseated on petition.