Richard Barnett

Sir Richard Barnett had three varied and successful careers as a Member of Parliament, a sports shooter, and as an outstanding chess player. In addition, he was a barrister at the Middle Temple.

The son of a County Down (Ireland) doctor, Sir Richard was born in England and, after being educated at Methodist College, Belfast, went up to Wadham College, Oxford where he studied classics and law, and was admitted to the Bar in 1889. At Wadham, Barnett was a captain in the Oxford University Volunteers, and from 1889-97 was a captain and Master of Musketry with the 22nd Middlesex Rifle Volunteer Corps (The Rangers).

Barnett was elected a conservative MP for St. Pancras West in 1916 until 1918, and then for St. Pancras South-West from then until he retired from Parliament in 1929. As a rifle shot, Barnett appeared at Bisley many times, and represented Ireland in the annual international competition for the Elcho Shield on 37 occasions. He was captain of the winning team in the annual shooting match between members of the House of Lords and House of Commons eight years in succession, 1921-28. Barnett also served as a Council member of the National Rifle Association.

At Oxford, Barnett started playing chess seriously and between 1886-89 was the champion of Ireland. After entering Parliament, he played a major role in reviving the House of Commons Chess Circle, of which he was president from 1923-29. Barnett was also chairman of the executive committee of the British Chess Federation, a post he held at the time of his death

By profession, Barnett worked at a senior level for various companies within the oil business. He was also a very senior member of the Freemasons and was at one time the president of the Board of Grand Stewards of England, and also a deputy Grand Sword Bearer.

Just three months before his death, Barnett presented at trophy at the Bisley Meeting, but contracted pneumonia shortly afterwards. He seemed to be recovering, but it was to eventually claim his life at the age of 66.