Marquess of Reading

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Marquess of Reading is a title in the United Kingdom’s peerage. It was created on 7 May 1926 for Rufus Isaacs, who had been MP for Reading (1904–1913), Viceroy of India, and Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales. Before becoming marquess, he had already been made Baron Reading (1914), Viscount Reading (1916), and Earl of Reading (1917).

The Marquessate of Reading is notable for being the highest title in the British peerage ever held by a Jew, and it remains an extant (still existing) title. It is currently the junior-most marquessate in the English and Welsh order of precedence. The first holder was succeeded by his son, the second marquess, who served as a government minister from 1951 to 1957 under Winston Churchill and Anthony Eden. As of 2024, the titles are held by the fourth marquess, Simon Isaacs, who inherited the title in 1980. The family seat is Jaynes Court, near Bisley, Gloucestershire.

The heir apparent is Julian Michael Rufus Isaacs, Viscount Erleigh (born 1986). Subsidiary titles include Earl of Reading, Viscount Reading, Viscount Erleigh, and Baron Reading. The family motto is AUT NUNQUAM TENTES AUT PERFICE (Either succeed or do not try).