Sir Charles Cockerell, 1st Bt (1755-1837), Banker

Sitter in 4 portraits
In 1776, Cockerell travelled to India to work in the Civil Service, where he remained until 1801. His most important role in India was as postmaster general, a post he held from 1784 until 1792. He returned to Britain in 1801 and became a partner in the London bank of Paxton, Cockerell and Trail. He was elected to Parliament as an MP in 1802, where, with a short break, he remained for the rest of his life. He was in favour of reform but voted against Catholic emancipation. Cockerell was created a baronet in 1809.