The 4th Lord Acton was a hereditary and life peer who campaigned against injustice in Zimbabwe and South Africa.
He was the consummate behind-the-scenes, self-effacing figure who was fascinated by politics
but wary of politicians. “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” remarked his great grandfather, the first Baron.
Richard Acton fought brave battles on the political front in Britain and Africa. With a wicked wit plus an ability to prick pomposity, he was able to inspire trust in some of the hardest hearts.
