David Morris

David Morris (1800 – 30 September 1864) was a British Whig and Liberal politician, and banker.

Early life The eldest son of banker William Morris, During the following weeks, it was alleged that efforts were being made, notably by the Carmarthen Journal, to persuade Yeleverton, the previous member, to oppose Morris on the grounds that his political views were too radical.

Although Morris held broadly Liberal views his political opinions were subordinated by his belief that his first duty was to represent his constituents, and in this regard he was a diligent member of the Commons who was rarely absent from divisions.

In 1847, Morris returned to Carmarthen at the start of the election campaign and was welcomed with festivities and celebrations. He was again returned unopposed. At the next election in 1852, Morris was again returned by acclamation.

As reported in 1857, opposition was regarded as being "perfectly useless" due to his popularity in the boroughs. Morris attracted support from a wide range of groups within the constituency including nonconformists. However, when a toast to dissenting ministers was offered at a dinner celebrating his return in 1857 no dissenting minister was present to acknowledge it. During his later years, Morris moved closer to supporting the radical wing of the Liberal Party, including the extension of the franchise, introducing the secret ballot and the abolition of church rates. By the end of his career he was considered a Liberal from 1859, and held the seat until his death in 1864. However, Lord Emlyn, who succeeded his father as Earl of Cawdor also inherited the lord lieutenancy.

Outside of Parliament, Morris was also a Justice of the Peace for Carmarthenshire. Within a few days, he was dead.

Upon his death, supporters and opponents alike praised his diligence as a member. His funeral at Carmarthen was reported to be the largest since the death of John Jones of Ystrad, a former MP for Carmarthenshire, in 1842.

David Morris bequeathed substantial sums to charities, including £2000 to the poor of Carmarthen, £1000 to the poor of Llanelli and £500 to Carmarthen Infirmary. A David Morris Charity operated until the 1990s. The rest of his substantial fortune, said to amount to £250,000, was divided between his cousins, Thomas Charles Morris of Bryn Myrddyn and William Morris of Cwm. William Morris succeeded him as MP for Carmarthen Boroughs.