Debate Thatcher in a civilised way

I HAVE no doubt that there are many in the UK who view some of the consequences of Margaret Thatcher’s periods as Prime Minister (1979-1990) with disfavour and have strong views on the subject. That disfavour has been illustrated by the recent treatment of the statue installed in her home town of Grantham, Lincolnshire (“Thatcher statue greeted with eggs and boos”, The Herald, May 16). Many of her policies, such as reducing taxes paid by the wealthy, the privatisation of the public utilities, the introduction of the poll tax, and the enactment of legislation restricting trade union powers occasioned much opposition. She did as Prime Minister provide strong leadership and she did lead the Conservatives to three General Election victories.

It is regrettable that the reaction of some to the placing of the statue is to seek to vandalise it and to emit loud noises to express disapproval. The leader of South Kesteven Council has said that it is “appropriate for the debate that surrounds her” to take place where she was born and brought up. Why not let that debate take place in a civilised fashion and establish what the majority of the people of the town desire?

Ian W Thomson, Lenzie.