With the demise of Humber, which made biggish, important-looking saloons, the British government turned to the Rover three-and-a-half-litre saloon as its official car in 1970. Invariably painted black, these Rovers were used by all high-ranking ministers including the Prime Minister: Harold Wilson had a special extra-large ashtray fitted to his to accommodate his pipe and matches. The Rovers continued in use through the Thatcher era, although 'The Lady' replaced hers with a Daimler Sovereign in 1980, perhaps noting Rover's gradual slide from upper-class respectability.
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