Tributes to former MP a ‘man of principle’
STEFAN JAJECZNYK
TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular former MP and lawyer whose career spanned six decades.
Arthur Davidson QC, represented the Accrington constituency as an MP for the Labour Party for 17 years between 1966 and 1983. He died aged 89 on Tuesday, January 18.
Following his time representing Accrington, Arthur moved to London where he worked as a legal director for several national newspapers and later worked as an expert in media and sports law - representing many famous faces.
Arthur is survived by his son, daughter and granddaughter.
Graham Jones, the current Hyndburn MP, led the tributes in a post on Facebook on Friday evening.
He said: “Really saddened to hear of the death of Arthur Davidson QC and former MP for Accrington (Hyndburn).
“Arthur is still fondly remembered to this day having won the seat in 1966 with an increased majority. He was considered a thoughtful man in Parliament.”
Arthur narrowly lost his parliamentary seat to Ken Hargreaves in 1983, an election which saw the end of the Accrington constituency after boundary changes which created the present-day Hyndburn seat. Graham added: “I hear often about Arthur’s loss in 1983 which he should have won, had a coach-load of voters from the working men’s club not headed off to Blackpool early morning on a works day outing. He lost by 21 votes after several recounts.”
Graham also spoke of his personal connection with Arthur. He said: “My distant aunt, Kath Thom, former County and Dis- trict Councillor (and Hyndburn Constituency Labour Party’s longestserving member) always spoke very fondly of Arthur as a kind man and a man of principle.”
Others shared their memories of Arthur in response to Graham’s post. Dave Robertshaw described him as an intelligent and tough but fair, while Chris Reid said he was a true gentleman to everybody.
Hyndburn Mayor, Councillor Peter Britcliffe, said: “I was sad to hear the news about Arthur. He was a man who was respected by everyone, regardless of their political affiliation.
“He served the borough well for many years and is remembered fondly by colleagues and residents alike. Our thoughts and condolences are with Arthur’s family at this sad time.”