James Borwick, 5th Baron Borwick

British businessman (born 1955)

Geoffrey Robert James Borwick, the 5th Baron Borwick, entered the House of Lords in 2013 after being elected in a hereditary peers by-election to replace Lord Reay. Born in 1955 to Robin and Patricia Borwick, he pursued a career as a British entrepreneur before transitioning into his role within the Conservative benches of the UK legislature.

Early Life and Education

Born on 7 March 1955, Borwick attended Sandroyd School before completing his secondary education at Eton College. He is the elder son of Robin Borwick and Patricia McAlpine, who was the daughter of Lord McAlpine of Moffatt. In 2007, he succeeded his uncle, the 4th Baron Borwick, to the family baronetcy and barony.

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Business Career

Borwick served as the Chief Executive of Manganese Bronze Holdings plc from 1987 to 2001, later acting as chairman until 2003. The company is primarily recognized for its production of London Taxis. In 2004, he founded the Coventry-based electric truck manufacturer Modec, which entered administration in March 2011 with debts exceeding £40 million. Between 1984 and 2012, he held a position as a non-executive Director at Hansa Trust plc. Additionally, he served as Chairman of both Countryside Properties (Bicester) Ltd and Federated Trust Corporation Ltd. Until October 2010, he acted as Chairman of Route2Mobility Ltd, a firm involved in the Motability scheme for disabled individuals. He also served as deputy chairman for the British Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership.

Political and Charitable Engagement

Following his 2013 election to the House of Lords, Borwick focused his parliamentary work on the Conservative side. Beyond his political duties, he maintains involvement in the charitable sector. He completed two six-year terms as a Trustee for the British Lung Foundation and currently serves as a Trustee for the Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals Charity.

Personal Background

In 1981, he married Victoria Poore, who subsequently served as an MP, a member of the London Assembly, and Deputy Mayor of London. The couple has three sons and one daughter. Their eldest child, Edwin, serves as the heir apparent to the family titles, while their second son, Thomas, has worked as a digital media strategist for the Conservative Party and Vote Leave.

Fast facts

Questions readers ask

When did Borwick enter the House of Lords?

He was elected in a hereditary peers by-election in July 2013.

What was his role at Manganese Bronze Holdings?

He served as Chief Executive from 1987 to 2001 and as chairman until 2003.

Achievements

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