He was born on 10 November 1903 at Taunton and educated at Huish's Grammar School. He qualified as a solicitor in 1925, served with the Royal Artillery in World War II and was Liberal National MP for East Norfolk 1939-1950 and for the Central Division of Norfolk 1950 until his retirement in 1959. He was treasurer of the Liberal Party 1969-1971 and also served as treasurer for the UK Band of Hope. He died on 9 January 1972.