Simon Quin obituary

My father, Simon Quin, who has died aged 77, was an economist with a long career at the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Simon's passion was helping developing countries, especially in Africa, to improve their economic management in support of growth and alleviation of poverty. He travelled extensively, advising officials in central banks, ministries and statistical offices on data required to make better-informed economic policy decisions. He believed income inequality was the root of many of society's ills.

His contributions enhanced the quality of statistical work at the IMF and countries worldwide. His way of addressing issues from a different, often provocative angle was a signature, as was his delivery - with a quiet, mischievous smile - of some new insight which he knew would require his colleagues to think again.