Archive

Archive (Thatcher MSS)

1949-59 (candidate): Beryl Cook to J.P.L. Thomas ("she is a winner")

Document type: Declassified documents
Source: Thatcher MSS (memoirs boxes)
Editorial comments: Transcribed from a handwritten note of material in the Conservative Party Archive. The file also contains a letter from a neighbouring Conservative MP, Waldron Smithers. Smithers to Thomas, 5 Feb 1949: at a meeting last night on borders of Dartford he was asked why "a young girl of 23, Miss Margaret Robertson [sic], had been selected as Candidate for Dartford? Could not they have got some prominent business man, etc etc etc. I have never met the lady, and know nothing about her, but if you would send me a line, in encouragement or otherwise, I might do some useful work". ... Thomas replied on 9 Feb: Dartford took a lot of trouble. They came down for Margaret Robertson [sic] "who created an excellent impression when she came to this office. As you know, we have been very anxious to have more women candidates, and I have spoken to this effect at the last two Conferences. Apparently Dartford have shared our views, and I am quite certain that they will not regret it".
Importance ranking: Major
Word count: 1p
Themes: Conservative Party (organization)