David was born in Plaistow, London in 1952, the son of James and Maud Ethel (nee Martin).
He was educated at St Bonaventure Grammar School and Bournemouth College of Technology (BSc Economics Hons, special subject: government). He married Julia Monica Margaret Arnold in 1983. He has one son and four daughters.
His career included being a school teacher (1970-71), insurance underwriter (1974-76), a Senior Consultant for a recruitment agency (1976-80), Partner of an employment agency (1981-87), Chairman of Accountancy Solutions (1987) and of
Accountancy Aims Group (1987-96).
His publications include The Road to Basildon (1993), Basildon Experience (1994) and he has been a contributor to magazines and pamphlets.
His recreations include reading, sport, gardening, animals, travel and popular music. His clubs are the Carlton and Kingswood Squash & Racketball in Basildon.
David Amess' Experience
David's political career includes:
1982-86 Member Redbridge Council (Vice Chairman of Housing 1982-85)
Member Conservative Party 1968- Parly. Candidate C Forest Gate 1974 and 78.
GLC Candidate Newham NW 1977. Parliamentary candidate Newham NW 1979.
1987-88 Parliamentary Private Secretary to Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Health DHSS
Minister of State and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Department of Transport 1988-90, to Ministers of State Department of the Environment 1990-92, to Chief Secretary of Treasury 1992-94, to Secretary of State for Defence 1995-97
1996 Chairman of 1912 Club
1997 Director of Parliamentary Broadcasting Unit Ltd.
1997 Vice Chairman of the Association of Conservative Clubs
1997 Joint Chairman of All Party Scout Group
1997 Joint Chairman of All Party Fire Group
1998 Member of Health Select Committee
1998 Vice President of National Lotteries Council