Michael Allenby, 3rd Viscount Allenby, English lieutenant and politician (d. 2014)

Lieutenant-Colonel Michael Jaffray Hynman Allenby, the 3rd Viscount Allenby, was a distinguished figure in British life, known for his careers in both the military and politics. Born on 20 April 1931, he carried a name steeped in significant British history, inheriting a peerage that linked him directly to his renowned grandfather. His passing on 3 October 2014 marked the end of a life dedicated to service, both in uniform and in the hallowed halls of Parliament as a hereditary peer.

A Legacy of Lineage and Service

Born into the aristocratic Allenby family, Michael Allenby inherited the title of 3rd Viscount Allenby upon the death of his father, Dudley Jaffray Hynman Allenby, 2nd Viscount Allenby, in 1984. This title, a viscountcy in the peerage of the United Kingdom, was originally bestowed upon his illustrious grandfather, Field Marshal Edmund Henry Hynman Allenby, 1st Viscount Allenby, for his pivotal role in the First World War, particularly his command of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force and the conquest of Palestine and Syria. The continuity of the title through generations underscored a strong sense of duty and public service within the family.

Before assuming his place in the House of Lords, Michael Allenby pursued a significant military career. He served with distinction in the British Army, rising to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. His service began with the Royal Norfolk Regiment, a historic infantry regiment, before he later transferred to the Queen's Dragoon Guards, a cavalry regiment. This military background not only shaped his character but also provided him with invaluable experience that would later inform his contributions in the political sphere. His time in the armed forces reflected a personal commitment to the nation, echoing the martial traditions of his family.

In the House of Lords: A Political Contribution

As a hereditary peer, the 3rd Viscount Allenby took his seat in the House of Lords, the upper chamber of the United Kingdom's Parliament. His presence there was not merely ceremonial; he actively participated in parliamentary life, contributing to debates and legislative scrutiny. His military background often provided a unique perspective, especially on matters of defense, foreign policy, and veterans' affairs. Hereditary peers, before the significant reforms of the House of Lords Act 1999, held automatic rights to sit and vote in Parliament, a historical privilege that connected the aristocratic structure with the legislative process. Even after the 1999 Act, which removed most hereditary peers, Viscount Allenby was one of the ninety-two elected hereditary peers who retained their seats, showcasing his continued commitment to parliamentary duties.

His political contributions, while not always in the public spotlight, were part of the steady work of scrutinizing government policy, proposing amendments, and representing various interests within the non-partisan traditions of the House of Lords. He embodied the role of a crossbench peer for much of his tenure, offering independent judgment rather than strict party allegiance. This aspect of his political life highlighted the unique nature of the House of Lords as a chamber of expertise and historical continuity.

FAQs

Who was Lieutenant-Colonel Michael Jaffray Hynman Allenby, 3rd Viscount Allenby?

He was a British military officer and hereditary peer who served in the House of Lords. He held the title of 3rd Viscount Allenby, a peerage inherited from his distinguished grandfather, Field Marshal Edmund Allenby.

What was his military background?

He served as a Lieutenant-Colonel in the British Army, initially with the Royal Norfolk Regiment and later transferring to the Queen's Dragoon Guards, a cavalry regiment.

What does "hereditary peer" mean in the British context?

A hereditary peer is a member of the peerage whose right to sit in the House of Lords is inherited through their family line. Before 1999, most hereditary peers automatically had a seat. After reforms, only 92 hereditary peers retain seats, elected by their fellow peers.

How was he connected to the famous Field Marshal Allenby?

Michael Allenby was the grandson of Field Marshal Edmund Allenby, 1st Viscount Allenby, who was a celebrated commander during the First World War.

What was his role as a "British politician"?

His role as a British politician was primarily through his membership in the House of Lords as a hereditary peer, where he contributed to debates and the legislative process, particularly on matters related to defense and foreign affairs.