Margaret Thatcher is reported to have engaged in two extramarital affairs, as detailed in a new book. The former Conservative Prime Minister, who was married to Denis Thatcher for over five decades, allegedly had a relationship with another politician early in her tenure as an MP and later with a separate individual.
Renowned journalist Tina Gaudoin, in her book “The Incidental Feminist,” reveals that Mrs. Thatcher had an “extracurricular friendship” with a close aide who would touch her knee during dinner engagements. According to Gaudoin, individuals she interviewed described Mrs. Thatcher as unexpectedly alluring, with many noting that she exuded a certain charm in person that was not evident in public appearances.
Multiple sources cited by Gaudoin, including former Tory minister Jonathan Aitken, claimed that Mrs. Thatcher was romantically involved with someone else “very early on in her parliamentary career” and potentially later with Sir Humphrey Atkins, a former Conservative MP and Cabinet minister under her leadership.
When questioned about Atkins, Aitken acknowledged rumors circulating at the time, suggesting that Mrs. Thatcher might have been drawn to his physical appearance but found his political acumen lacking. Another politician remarked on Atkins’ promotions despite his perceived shortcomings, hinting at potential reasons behind his advancement within the political sphere.
Insiders also disclosed to the author that Lord Bell, Mrs. Thatcher’s PR chief, shared a similar “extracurricular friendship” with her, including physical gestures like placing his hand on her knee during social gatherings. However, Gaudoin clarified that the relationship likely did not progress beyond certain boundaries.
Lord Moore, the author of Mrs. Thatcher’s official biography, acknowledged hearing about the Atkins rumor in the past but emphasized the lack of concrete evidence to support such claims. Gaudoin further delves into Mrs. Thatcher’s connections, revealing a close bond between her husband and former model Mandy Rice-Davies post her tenure, characterized by affectionate correspondence discussing various topics.
The revelations from Gaudoin’s book were discussed at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, as reported by the Times. The narrative sheds light on the complex personal dynamics surrounding one of Britain’s most iconic political figures, offering a glimpse into the lesser-known aspects of her life beyond the public eye.