PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar yesterday signed the book of condolence opened at the British High Commission for the country’s first and only female Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who died at the age of 87 on April 8.

The “Iron Lady” as she was known throughout her 11-year rule (1979 to 1990), made history as the only prime minister to hold consecutive terms in office in 150 years.  The Conservative Party leader was known for her resilience and vociferousness.
“She made her mark on the political life of the world. She was controversial, but at the same time she made a significant contribution towards development,” President Ramotar recalled.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, who also signed the book of condolence, admired her for her strength, especially at a time when women played a marginal role in such positions.
“I think she made a mark in this world, not only in the UK, and we certainly appreciate that,” Minister Rodrigues-Birkett said.
News of the former Prime Minister’s death brought an outpouring of sympathy from Britons who laid roses outside her home, and messages of condolences from leaders the world over.