British scientist and public official.

Best known for his scientific experiments on the electricity-discharging torpedo fish, which was the primary topic of his correspondence with Franklin.

Became a writer for the East India Company (1742). Became paymaster in Madras (1757). Became secretary to Baron Clive during the Bengal campaign.

Returned to England (1759). Became a Member of Parliament (1761); held his seat until 1780.

Elected Fellow of the Royal Society (1770).