SIR – I regard myself as a New Labour socialist, nevertheless I was sorry to hear of the demise of Margaret Thatcher.

It’s true that she made many improvements to the British economy, perhaps most important: reaffirming the importance of the market, free enterprise and individual responsibility.

Thatcher also made the actions of the trade unions more democratic.

When she came to power a strike could be called after a show of hands in a factory car park, resulting in major industries grinding to a halt with damaging consequences for the British economy.

All as a result of the actions of a small minority of trade union members. The postalballotput anendto that.

Thatcher was certainly a powerfulfigure onthe international stage. She strengthened the ‘special relationship’ with the US and more importantly, maintained democracy in the Falkland Islands through her decisive action, despite the objections of her cabinet and Ronald Regan, who wanted to rely on diplomacy, a brave move.

They believed to retake the Falklands using military force was too difficult a task.

There was much indignation at the time of the invasion, politicians from all parties were united in their condemnation.

Many huffed and puffed, but Thatcher took action.

Perhaps her finest hour.

Thatcher also contributed to the end of the Cold War, recognising Mikhail Gorbachev as “a man I can do business with”.

She was certainly a tough and resolute leader.

However, many MPs from both sides of the House have testified as to her kindness.

The popularity of ‘Thatcherism’ forced the Labour party to reform, including abandoning clause four of the Labour Party manifesto, the outdated policy of nationalising the means of production. The reformed Labour party became New Labour which enabled Tony Blair to be elected and the continuation, to some extent, of Thatcherism.

However, there was a dark side to her years in power. I would certainly include the destruction of not only the coal mining industry but also mining communities.

In addition, the privatisation of the public utilities, water, gas and electricity, are too important to be in private hands and should be run for public good rather than private profit.

Joseph Chamberlain realised this as long ago as 1876 when he took the water and gas supply of Birmingham into public ownership.

Margaret Thatcher reminds me of my secondary school headmaster. A tough disciplinarian and a man to be feared. He expected us to workhard and do our best, but he was a kind man. In his last assembly before he resigned, he also was reduced to tears.

CHRIS BROWN

Worcester