Charles Kerr, 1st Baron Teviot facts for kids

Charles Iain Kerr, 1st Baron Teviot (born May 3, 1874 – died January 7, 1968) was an important British politician. He was also a brave soldier. He earned two special awards for his military service: the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Military Cross (MC).

Charles Iain Kerr: A Life in Politics

Charles Iain Kerr came from a well-known family. His father was Charles Wyndham Rodolph Kerr. His great-grandfather was William Kerr, 6th Marquess of Lothian. His mother was Anna Maria Olivia. She was the daughter of Admiral Sir George Elliot.

Early Life and Military Service

Charles Kerr joined the military and became a high-ranking officer. He reached the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in the Royal Horse Guards. This was a very important cavalry regiment. He was recognized for his bravery and leadership. This is why he received the Distinguished Service Order and the Military Cross. These awards are given for great courage during wartime.

Political Career

After his military service, Charles Kerr entered politics. He became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1932. He represented the area called Montrose Burghs. He was part of the National Liberal Party.

He quickly took on important roles in government:

• Chief Whip: From 1937 to 1939, he was the Chief Whip for the National Liberals. A Chief Whip makes sure that members of their party vote together.
• Junior Lord of the Treasury: He also served as a Junior Lord of the Treasury. This role meant he helped manage government finances. It also involved being a government whip.
• Comptroller of the Household: From 1939 to 1940, he was the Comptroller of the Household. This was another important government position. He served in the National Government during these years.

In 1940, Charles Kerr received a special honor. He was given the title of Baron Teviot. This meant he became a member of the House of Lords. After this, he led the Liberal National Party. He was the Chairman from 1940 to 1956. The party later changed its name to the National Liberal Party.

Family Life and Later Years

Lord Teviot was married twice. His first marriage was to Muriel Constance Canning in 1911. They did not have any children together. They divorced in 1930.

Later in 1930, he married Florence Angela Villiers. They had one son, Charles. Lord Teviot lived a long life. He passed away in January 1968 at the age of 93. His son, Charles, inherited his title and became the 2nd Baron Teviot. Lady Teviot, his second wife, died in 1979.

Images for kids

• 

  The coronet worn by a British Baron.

• 

  The coat of arms for Baron Teviot.