Lord Boothby’s Letter To ‘the Times’ (Press, 3 August 1964)

On 3 August 1964, Lord Boothby, a prominent British politician and life peer, publicly addressed serious allegations made against him in a letter published in "The Times." Born Robert John Graham Boothby in 1900, he has had a significant career in political and public affairs, including serving as parliamentary private secretary to Sir Winston Churchill from 1926 to 1929. He holds various positions, including director of David Allen and Sons, Ltd, and vice-chairman of the International Movement for Atlantic Union. In his letter, Lord Boothby vehemently denied rumours suggesting that he had a homosexual relationship with a known criminal involved in a London protection racket. The allegations included claims that he attended all-male parties in Mayfair and had been photographed in compromising situations. He refuted these claims, asserting that the accounts are fabricated and the result of a campaign led by the "Sunday Mirror" and "Daily Mirror" newspapers. Lord Boothby explained that upon returning to London from France on 17 July, he was astonished to find that the media and public were rife with speculation regarding his supposed indiscretions. He outlined that he only met the alleged gangster three times regarding business, all of which occurred in his flat and in the presence of others. He further clarified that he had never attended any parties associated with the criminal underworld or clergymen in Brighton, nor had anyone attempted to blackmail him. The letter also noted that the police had not conducted any surveillance on his activities, contrary to the allegations made against him. He expressed frustration over the damaging effects of the false rumours, stating that it creates an impossible situation for public figures who feel compelled to defend their reputations amidst unfounded accusations. Lord Boothby concluded his letter by challenging the newspapers to produce any evidence they claim to possess regarding the allegations. He stated that he is not a homosexual and has not attended any such parties for over 20 years. A spokesperson from the "Daily Mirror" responded to the controversy by declining to comment further. The Home Secretary, Mr Brooke, had previously stated in the House of Commons that the police found no supporting evidence for claims that a criminal protection racket existed involving club owners and a connection between a peer and a leading criminal.

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