Condolences for the Thatcher family

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The Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks has joined Australian leaders in sending condolences to the family of the late Margaret Thatcher.

Margaret Thatcher

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard said: “The world has woken to the news that Margaret Thatcher has died. I did want to offer my condolences to Margaret Thatcher’s family. Margaret Thatcher was a woman who changed history for women.

Obviously, Margaret Thatcher and I did not share a political outlook on the world.

But as a woman, I am admiring of her achievements becoming the first woman to lead the United Kingdom, the first female Prime Minister there.

Many around the world will be reflecting upon her life and times today, as is appropriate with the loss of such a significant figure.

For women around the world, they will be reflecting on the loss of a woman who showed a new way forward for women and a way into leadership.”

Tony Abbott, Leader of the Opposition added: “Margaret Thatcher was one of the greatest British prime ministers and one of the most significant world leaders of our times. She was the first female prime minister of Great Britain and ranks with the greatest of prime ministers because of the quality of her leadership and the impact she had on Britain and the wider world.

Margaret Thatcher arrested the decline of Britain and gave the British people renewed confidence. She ensured the British people no longer simply dwelt on the glories of the past but could enjoy a strong and prosperous future.

The thoughts of the Coalition are with Baroness Thatcher’s family and the British people at this time.

Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks said: “Baroness Thatcher was a giant who had a transformative impact on Britain. I first got to know her early on in my life when she was the local MP.  She was loved and admired by many in the Jewish community who will miss her deeply. Few people in my lifetime have left such a personal imprint on British life.” Lord Sacks is Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth.