Duncan Campbell was calm, friendly, and charming

Tributes to Duncan Campbell

I encountered Duncan Campbell, who sadly passed away recently. I joined the National Federation of Journalists while working at Peace News. After I found myself involved in a case where I was charged for mentioning a “secret” witness in a primary trial, Duncan’s calm and charismatic demeanor was something I really admired and felt I could learn from.

However, my most vivid memory of him dates back to his time as the news editor at Timeout, a radical publication. There was a significant dispute when the owners decided to move away from wage equality. Even though he was one of those advocating for increasing wages, Duncan stood firm alongside his colleagues who resisted this change.

During one particular meeting, he delivered an impactful speech supporting the idea of equal pay within the organization. He posed a thought-provoking question: “Does a journalist sitting at a desk require more nutrition to survive than someone who cleans their feet?” This clear moral stance on wage disparity compelled me to seek employment only with organizations that uphold such values.

— Albert Beer, Kings Cross, London

I felt profound sadness upon learning about the passing of Duncan Campbell, a journalist with the Guardian. He was incredibly supportive during a difficult time following my birth father’s death, a notorious bank robber named Bobby King.

Duncan and Bobby developed a friendship while Duncan explored the London detective underground, with Bobby contributing to interviews for Duncan’s book and related television series. After Bobby’s release from prison, Duncan helped him on the straight and narrow, even giving him a research role in his next book.

Once Bobby passed away in 2000, I reached out to Duncan. As an adult, I was eager to write about the shock of discovering my father’s notorious criminal past. Duncan was not only kind but also encouraging, offering guidance and ultimately helping me publish the resulting article in the Guardian.

We only met in person once, yet his warm demeanor and genuine interest in adoption and its complexities remain with me. I am truly grateful to this compassionate man for his time and support.