Letters: Peter Jay obituary
- In 1968, Victoria Brittain, the only female junior journalist at the Times in Washington, found Peter Jay to be a supportive colleague.
- Peter and his wife Margaret were known for their generosity and inclusiveness in both Washington and London.
- Jay's choices, such as dedicating funds to his yacht, reflected his personal approach in balancing professional and personal life.
In the late 1960s, during Peter Jay's tenure as a journalist, he distinguished himself by treating colleagues with kindness and respect, particularly in the context of a male-dominated environment. This behavior was noted by Victoria Brittain, who, at the time, was the most junior woman working at the Times office in Washington. Unlike others who often faced patronization from male peers, she found Peter to be a supportive and humorous ally. His thoughtful approach extended beyond work circumstances, as he and his wife, Margaret, built a reputation for being generous and inclusive friends, both in Washington and later in London. Their social interactions were marked by an absence of elitism, which was refreshing in the journalistic community of that era. Beyond personal connections, Peter Jay's character was also reflected in his financial decisions. He opted to use funds originally designated for a yacht renovation, indicating a prioritization of personal or recreational pursuits over rigid professional obligations. This combination of personal kindness, financial choices, and inclusive friendships painted a picture of a journalist who not only excelled in his career but also made a conscious effort to create a congenial environment for those around him.