Constituency : Isle of Wight 1974-87
Stephen took Isle of Wight at the third attempt, coming from third place to take the seat from the Tories. He was helped by the Tories' involvement in a financial scandal. His win was a surprise; none of his fellow MPs had met him before.
Stephen was the son of a Scottish shipowner. He was educated at Bedford School then joined the Royal Navy in 1944. In 1948 he went to work for his uncle who ran a cattle market in Kidderminster. He became a chartered surveyor and went to the Isle for work as an auctioneer in 1953 .In 1964 he was agent for the Liberal candidate Barbara Bliss who didn't seem clear on who the Prime Minister was. Stephen stood himself in 1966 gaining 22% of the vote in third : he held his ground in 1970. He was a county councillor and was leader of the council from 1973 to 1974.
Stephen had a number of briefs during his time in Parliament but is best remembered for the Housing ( Homeless Persons ) Act of 1977 which began as his Private Member's bill. He became council leader again from 1981 to 1983.
Stephen was well liked and had a large personal vote.
Stephen stood down in 1987 becoming Baron Ross. He spoke on local government in the Lords.
Stephen collected antiques and porcelain.
He died of a heart attack in 1993 aged 66.
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