Mother of jobless man sues Thatcher

The unemployment rate in 1982 was spiralling, with a staggering three million people out of work.

The closure of coal mines and traditional manufacturing factories saw the finger of blame squarely pointed at the UK Government, as The Post reported.

“Mum Serves Writ On Mrs T,” read the headline. “A mother whose 24-year-old son has been out of work for three years has issued a writ against Mrs Thatcher, claiming £100,000 for hardship and distress. Mrs Berenice Smith (56), of Portland, Dorset, says she has taken out the writ to challenge the Prime Minister to change her policies so that young people can get jobs.

“Her son Richard, who has eight O levels, two A levels and a diploma in art and design, has only had one eight-month job as a gardener since leaving school.”