 Margaret Thatcher made a rare public address Thursday, appearing frail and slightly confused as she reopened a local branch of the political party she once led. The 79-year-old former prime minister, who has had a series of small strokes, had to be prompted several times during a brief speech at the Conservative Party offices in the London suburb of Romford. "I'm delighted to be here, the sun is shining above us, I hope it will continue that way until we have a splendid victory in the election, for the future," Lady Thatcher told supporters of the Conservative Party, which has been in opposition since 1997. A national election is widely expected in May. "Thank you very much for turning out. It's lovely to see such a good crowd supporting your candidate," she said, standing at the front of the refurbished Romford Conservative Association headquarters with former Cabinet colleague Lord Tebbit at her side. She paused for several seconds until local lawmaker Andrew Rosindell gave her a prompt with her next words. She continued, but seemed uncertain the building was a Conservative headquarters. Rosindell then prompted her again. Onlookers cheered as she unveiled a plaque commemorating the event. | Best wishes, Mrs. Thatcher. |
|