John Sergeant, BBC
If yesterday was a brisk start to Mrs. Thatcher's campaign, today was even brisker. At one stage the opposition leader almost broke into a run as she forged her way through the gaggle of press men to look round a factory in Bristol which makes domestic products. She showed particular interest in an ironing board cover.
MT
They're an absolute boon because they don't scorch.
Answer
No no.
MT
In fact they've been tried when I've had a sheet underneath and it scorched the sheet underneath but not the aluminium. They're marvellous, I didn't know you made those. They're terrific.
John Sergeant, BBC
After a breathless 45 minutes she was back in the front yard of the factory. Outside the gates conservative supporters carried placard saying ‘Super Maggie’ and ‘We Love You, Maggie’ and inside the managing directory gave Mrs. Thatcher a present to remember.
Managing Director of Factory
We shall remember for very many years your visit to us and we wanted to give you something so you can never forget us, so we've made this giant-size brush especially for you. It's in this synthetic and … [words inaudible] … still made of wood and horsehair, so we'd like to present to take away and hopefully keep it and remember every time you look at it.
MT
Thank you very much … [end p1]
John Sergeant, BBC
To the thirty or so photographers, this of course was the big moment, but Mrs. Thatcher was determined not to make a false move with the brush. She wasn't going to be seen brushing the grass.
Photographer
Can we have one sweep?
MT
You don't sweep grass! [Laughter.] Not with this sort of broom.
John Sergeant, BBC
Still the photographers weren't satisfied until Mrs Thatcher adapted a more aggressive pose. “We'll sweep them out of Whitehall” she said, brandishing the brush and this was so good they wanted her to do it again.
Photographer
Once more please, one more time Mrs. Thatcher.
MT
Now in which direction am I to make the foray this time?
Photographer
One more please.
MT
Towards you?
Photographer
For me. Lovely, lovely. [Laughter.]
MT
The charge of the Light Brigade [laughing.]
Voice
Thank you for coming.
John Sergeant, BBC
Well after it was the train to London. Tonight Mrs. Thatcher will be speaking in Gravesend.