'Iron Lady' Thatcher to Leave Public Life

Home>>World

Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Sunday, March 24, 2002

'Iron Lady' Thatcher to Leave Public Life

Baroness Thatcher has decided to follow doctors' advice and will never make a speech in public again, the Times newspaper reported on Saturday.

DISCUSSION

CHINESE

SEND TO FRIEND

Baroness Thatcher has decided to follow doctors' advice and will never make a speech in public again, the Times newspaper reported on Saturday.

The surprise announcement on Friday marks the effective retirement from public life of the 76-year-old former prime minister, who has suffered a series of slight strokes and whose failing health has been a source of deep concern to family and friends.

A statement released by Thatcher's office on Friday said: "Over recent months, Lady Thatcher has suffered a number of small strokes.

"After thorough investigation, involving a number of tests, her doctors have told her that these can neither be predicted nor prevented.

"They have therefore told her to cut back her program at once and in particular to avoid the undue strains that public speaking place on her."

Thatcher was taken ill on Tuesday and was told to cancel future engagements. Aides had hoped she would be back at work within days, but on Friday announced her retirement would be permanent.

Thatcher, who famously survived on four hours sleep a day when serving as prime minister, had maintained a punishing workload even in retirement. But her health has deteriorated over the last decade and she suffered her first stroke late last year.

Stroke is the single main cause of adult disability in Britain and the third biggest killer, affecting 190 people per 100,000 population every year.

Questions?Comments? Click here