English playwright who achieved spectacular verbal effects by his cunning manipulation of phrasing and his use of outrageous double entendre and, especially, of non sequitur.

Simpson was educated at the University of London, and during World War II he served in the Intelligence Corps. After the war he taught and worked in adult education. Simpson's first play, A Resounding Tinkle (1957), illustrates his style of humour. One Way Pendulum (performed 1959) is Simpson's most successful work.

Later plays include The Hole (performed 1964), The Cresta Run (performed 1966), and Was He Anyone? (1973), the last of which he turned into the novel Harry Bleachbaker (1976). He also wrote for television.