Brown "delighted" by Thatcher visit
Margaret Thatcher portrait to be unveiled in Downing Street
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Monday, 23, Nov 2009 03:00
By Alex Stevenson
Margaret Thatcher has paid another visit to Gordon Brown in Downing Street.
The prime minister's spokesman told journalists Mr Brown was "delighted" to welcome the former Conservative prime minister back to No 10.
She visited to attend the unveiling of a portrait in Downing Street painted by Richard Stone. It will be hung in the state rooms lobby on the first floor.
"This is a very special occasion. The prime minister is delighted," Mr Brown's spokesman said this morning.
David Cameron was on the list of invited guests provided by Baroness Thatcher for the taxpayer-funded private event.
He did not participate in a photocall on the steps of No 10, however.
The decision to permit photographs was a controversial one. In September 2007 Baroness Thatcher visited Downing Street for private talks, having been praised by Mr Brown as a "conviction politician" who "saw the need for change".
Mr Brown subsequently found himself accused of exploiting the ageing Tory icon.
No 10 is already in trouble over photocalls. Mr Brown was forced to apologise to Westminster Abbey after allowing himself to be photographed as he inspected the Abbey's garden of crosses on Armistice Day.