Speeches, etc.

Margaret Thatcher

Written Statement of support for Cecil Parkinson (Keays affair)

Document type: Speeches, interviews, etc.
Venue: No.10 Downing Street
Source: The Times, 6 October 1983
Editorial comments: Available on CD-ROM only. Timing uncertain. Although cast in indirect speech, the statement was quoted in later days as MT’s own words (e.g., The Times, 10 October 1983). As resignation talk grew, a further statement - perhaps closer to a briefing than a Prime Ministerial statement - was issued on the evening of Sunday 9 October: "There is absolutely no suggestion that Mr Parkinson is about to resign. There is no change in the position. The question of resignation does not arise" (ibid).
Importance ranking: Major
Word count: 638
Themes: Executive, Conservative Party (organization)