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We were all shocked and deeply saddened to learn that Matthew Maxwell-Scott had died, suddenly, on July 5th. Many of us at ARAG worked with Matthew in his role as founder and executive director of the Association of Consumer Support Organisations (ACSO), the not-for-profit membership body established to represent the interests of consumers in the civil justice system.

In April, he took on the role of CEO of the newly formed Consumer Legal Association, a trade body for claimant law firms, particularly those representing consumer clients who had experienced personal injury or clinical negligence.

During his career, Matthew also served as a local councillor, in both Wandsworth and later Lancashire, and ran for Parliament in the 2015 and 2017 general elections. He was a trustee of the Abbotsford Trust and host of the Sir Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction, presented in honour of his great-great-great-great-grandfather.

He was a fearless and tireless campaigner on behalf of those who might be excluded from our struggling justice system, but always enthusiastic and good-humoured in his work. Above all, Matthew was a hugely respected and extremely popular character in Westminster and the civil justice community.

Last week, ARAG CEO David Haynes paid personal tribute to Matthew, saying:

“Our first thoughts are inevitably with Matthew’s family at such a devastating and heartbreaking moment.

“I was lucky enough to know Matthew for many years, over which time he became a good friend who brought enormous energy, professionalism and enjoyment to our work together.

“While the causes for which he campaigned were serious, challenging and often contentious, Matthew’s huge charm and good humour would invariably disarm those who might oppose his position.

“Every meeting, speech, conference and event was the brighter for his presence and I know that he is already sorely and deeply missed, by everyone who shared his passion for fair access to justice and far beyond.

Personally, I will miss Matthew enormously, but we’ve all lost a great consumer champion.”

Matthew Maxwell-Scott is survived by his wife and two teenage sons.