James Goldsmith | |
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Leader of the Referendum Party | |
In office 1994–1997 | |
Preceded by | Office created |
Succeeded by | Office abolished |
Member of the European Parliament for France | |
In office 1994–1997 | |
Personal details | |
Born | James Michael Goldsmith 26 February 1933 Paris, France |
Died | 18 July 1997 Benahavís, Spain | (aged 64)
Nationality |
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Political party | |
Spouses |
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Domestic partner | Laure Boulay de La Meurthe |
Children | 8, including Jemima, Zac, Ben, and Charlotte |
Parents |
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Relatives | See Goldsmith family |
Education | Millfield, Eton College |
Known for | Finance, Eurosceptic politician |
Website | sirjamesgoldsmith |
Sir James Michael Goldsmith (26 February 1933 – 18 July 1997) was a French-British[1] financier, tycoon[2] and politician who was a member of the Goldsmith family.
His controversial business and finance career led to ongoing clashes with British media, frequently involving litigation or the threat of litigation.
In 1994 he was elected to represent a French constituency as a Member of the European Parliament. He founded the short-lived Eurosceptic Referendum Party in the United Kingdom, which became an early campaigner for opposition to Britain's membership of the European Union.