20 Oct 2010

Lady Thatcher in hospital with infection

The 85-year-old former prime minister, Lady Thatcher, is undergoing tests after she was admitted to hospital with an infection following a bout of flu.

Lady Thatcher

Baroness Thatcher was taken to Cromwell Hospital in Kensington last night for routine tests and treatment after she failed to recover from a bout of flu last week.

Lady Thatcher was unable to attend her own birthday party at Number 10 Downing Street last week, but insisted 150 of her friends and former colleagues celebrate without her.

PM’s message
David Cameron, who hosted the guests in her honour, wished Lady Thatcher “a speedy recovery”.

He told the party: “On this particular occasion I have had to accept that the Lady is not for returning. Please, please enjoy yourselves.”

“She is in very good spirits, absolutely excellent. It’s entirely precautionary.” Sir Mark Thatcher, Lady Thatcher’s son

Mr Cameron has promised to hold another celebration when she has recovered.

‘Good spirits’
After visiting Lady Thatcher in hospital, her son Mark said she was “in good spirits” and “looked well”.

“She’s been recovering quite well but the doctors wanted to bring her into hospital for some routine tests over the next couple of days,” he said.

“If they go according to plan she’ll be home shortly.

“She is in very good spirits, absolutely excellent. It’s entirely precautionary.”

The 85 year-old continues to attend high-profile functions, but on medical advice now very rarely speaks in public.

In March 2008 Lady Thatcher spent the night in hospital after she fell ill during a dinner at Westminster.

She has also previously suffered minor strokes.