Family and Education

b. 9 Oct. 1711, 1st surv. s. of William Grimston, M.P., 1st Visct. Grimston [I], by Jean, da. of James Cooke of London. m. 19 June 1746, Mary, da. of William Bucknall of Oxhey Place, Watford, Herts., 3s. 5da. suc. fa. as 2nd Visct. 15 Oct. 1756.

Offices Held

Biography

James Grimston, whose father had represented St. Albans in four Parliaments 1710-22 and 1727-1734, was a candidate at the by-election of 1743, but refused to offer any bribes and was defeated by a narrow margin. He hesitated at first whether to stand at the general election of 1754—his father apparently was against it1—but finally declared himself a candidate on 29 Dec. 1753, and was returned unopposed on an agreement with the Duke of Marlborough, acting for his nephew John Spencer: Grimston promised to support Spencer or his nominee at the next general election. No vote or speech by him in the House is recorded. He did not stand again for Parliament, and died 15 Dec. 1773.

Ref Volumes: 1754-1790

Author: Sir Lewis Namier

Notes

• 1. Add. 34734, f. 64.