Swraj Paul, known as Lord Paul, passed away at the age of 94. He was recognized as a significant international philanthropist, notably in India, the US, and the UK, contributing to various charities and institutions that bear his family’s name. Notable beneficiaries include the London Zoo, which features a children’s zoo named in memory of his daughter, Ambika, and the University of Wolverhampton, where he served as chancellor from 1999 until his death.
Paul, who was born in Jalandhar, India, had a notable background in the steel industry. He established the Caparo Group, which expanded into different sectors including engineering and property development, reaching substantial financial success. Despite a downturn in the steel industry leading to the failure of most of the Caparo companies in 2015, Paul’s family retained significant wealth, ranking 81st on the Sunday Times rich list in 2023 with an estimated net worth of £2 billion.
In the political sphere, Paul was appointed a Labour peer in 1996 but subsequently became a crossbencher after a dispute concerning parliamentary expenses in 2010. He was involved in a police inquiry over claimed allowances but faced no criminal charges, though he was suspended from the House of Lords for four months, resulting in his resignation as a deputy speaker.
Paul was also recognized for his contributions to British society, having gained citizenship in 1976 and actively participating in various political and philanthropic initiatives. His ties to notable political figures, including former Prime Ministers Michael Foot and Gordon Brown, marked significant points in his public life.
His academic background includes studies at MIT, where he earned degrees in mechanical engineering before venturing into family business. He was a member of several committees and associations, contributing to various projects, including the London 2012 Olympics. Paul is survived by his three children and was preceded in death by his wife in 2022.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/sep/07/lord-paul-obituary