Margaret Thatcher’s funeral: A gentle re-cap

Crowds lined the street in London to pay respect as Baroness Thatcher’s coffin passed by

By Nicole Hamer |

12:03 18 April 2013

Despite some predictions, the funeral of the late Margaret Thatcher rolled out quite peacefully on Wednesday, 18^thApril. There were fears that there would be protests but when Baroness Thatcher’s coffin was being taken to St. Paul’s Cathedral, a number of onlookers applauded.

 

A team of eight service men carried the former PM’s coffin down the street for the procession, where military presence was visible, and into St. Paul’s Cathedral, where family members, friends and many other individuals were gathered ready for the service. The Queen looked on as the coffin was put in position.

 

Among those who had gathered inside St. Paul’s were politicians from differing parties. Former Prime Minister and Labour man Tony Blair was present, as was Tory supporter John Major. PM David Cameron and Gordon Brown were also at the Cathedral, as well as members from the current cabinet.

 

Previously Mr. Cameron asked for respect to be shown on the day of Baroness Thatcher’s funeral. He said “we are all Thatcherites now” when speaking to the Today programme. However, this was disagreed with by certain politicians.

 

And leaders from across the globe came to the service. Not to mention guests such as Top Gear’sJeremy Clarkson and singer Katherine Jenkins who also attended the ceremonial funeral.

 

There has been controversy surrounding the cost of Baroness Thatcher’s funeral however. It is no secret that many individuals disapproved of the Iron Lady’s policies, as well as those who supported them.

 

Margaret Thatcher became Britain’s first female Prime Minister in the late 70s. She died on Monday, 8^th April, 2013.