MEPO 3/19551939-1945The file is initiated after relatives of the real Lord Hampton alert authorities to the deception. At first, Ernest Hampton was thought to have 'pathological reasons' for his impersonation, however, routine checks reveal his criminal past, of larceny, obtaining money by false pretences and conspiracy to defraud, as well as a string of aliases. Real name - Roy Vivian, he's described as 'a clever and plausible rogue'. He's found to be the mastermind behind a criminal smuggling ring. Before the Second World War, he was known to pose as a member of the British Secret Intelligence Service (S.I.S) and claimed to have connections with MI5. Towards the end of the file it’s suggested that he may be working for the German Intelligence Service, and although no connection was established it's noted he "gets very nervous under questioning, yet looks you in the eyes when telling lies".
The National Archives
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