Posted on 11/21/2009 7:30:59 PM PST by naturalman1975
Gordon Brown has banned television cameras from the unveiling of a portrait of Margaret Thatcher in Downing Street amid suspicions he is terrified of unflattering comparisons of their records.
Baroness Thatcher will effectively stage her own No 10 reunion when the painting by distinguished Royal artist Richard Stone is displayed in public for the first time. Most of the guests served with her in her Downing Street heyday - with Mr Brown the only Labour politician present.
No10 could not explain why the ceremony would take place behind closed doors. Friends of Lady Thatcher said she had no objection to cameras being there.
The decision is bound to prompt claims that Mr Brown does not relish the prospect of his two years of turmoil being compared to Lady Thatcher's 11 years of success. Furthermore, the event tomorrow is being staged 19 years and one day after Lady Thatcher left No 10 in tears having been ousted by her own party. Rumours persist that Mr Brown may suffer the same fate, although after a considerably shorter time span.
Mr Brown commissioned the painting when he invited Lady Thatcher to tea at Downing Street in September 2007, three months after he succeeded Tony Blair and when he was still enjoying his political honeymoon.
Then, he was happy to be photographed greeting her outside the famous front door. She told him she was 'honoured' by the initiative.
Since then Mr Brown's ratings have plummeted as a result of the recession, Afghanistan, the expenses scandal and claims he is indecisive - which may explain why he is more camera-shy this time round.
(Excerpt) Read more at dailymail.co.uk ...
He added: 'It is intended to be a classic, historic portrait and will remain in Downing Street for ever. It is an extraordinary act of homage by the Prime Minister.' Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1229921/Brown-bans-cameras-No10-portrait-unveiling--After-Thatcher-win-votes.html#ixzz0XYVTWJRE
A towering figure. Great Lady.
Wife and I got to hear her speak in Mpls many years back.
Dear Lady, thank you.
One remarkable woman!
The final leaders of the Free World.
Two great statesmen.
Same nose shape, too.
Nicely done portrait.
Obvious answer - but I do give the man a little credit for commissioning this tribute to her in the face of what must have been very considerable opposition from parts of his party.
Let us not forget John Paul.
Ah - the good days; back when the adults were still in charge...
God bless her.
Her Eulogy for Reagan was great stuff!
Lovely portait of a great woman.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.