BARONESS Thatcher (Margaret Hilda) was the first woman to lead a Western democracy.
On January 3, 1988 she became the longest serving Prime Minister since Asquith (1908-16).
After becoming increasingly unpopular Thatcher, pictured, resigned in November 1990 after 11 years and seven months as PM.
Current incumbent Tony Blair is now facing a similar end (SA, "Residents unmoved by Blair's quit date," Sept 7).
Thatcher has won the battle for longevity because Blair would need to last until November 2008 to equal the iconic Iron Lady's time in office.
Ultimately, I think the war in Iraq cost Blair the opportunity of winning a remarkable fourth General Election and subsequently a victorious place in history.
N E GOUGH Swindon
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