The BBC found itself at the centre of an impartiality debate after Woman’s Hour failed to acknowledge the 50th anniversary of becoming the leader of the .
The omission has sparked criticism from right wing political figures, including former Home Secretary .
Thatcher, who took over from Ted Heath as Leader of the Opposition in February 1975, later became the UK’s longest-serving Prime Minister in modern history. Her leadership left a lasting impact on the country, which has earned her both admiration and criticism.
was among those expressing disappointment over the lack of recognition on the program. She remarked: “Great to hear that Woman’s Hour will be commemorating 40 years of but disappointing there is no marking of the election of Margaret Thatcher as leader of the Conservatives 50 years ago today. Whatever you think or thought of her she was an inspiration to women.”
Braverman, who has previously voiced support for abolishing the licence fee, also weighed in on the controversy. She stated: “Very disappointing that Woman’s Hour refuses to acknowledge Mrs Thatcher’s phenomenal achievement 50 years ago today.”
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Some Conservatives have expressed anger that the BBC did not pay tribute to Margaret Thatcher today (Image: Getty)
In contrast, right leaning channel dedicated extensive coverage to the anniversary, reflecting on key moments from Thatcher’s legacy including the 1984/5 Miners’ Strike and the divisive poll tax protests.
Political reporter Adam Cherry noted: “Margaret Thatcher isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But 50 years on from her election, as the first female leader of the Conservative Party, the fact that she is still at the centre of political conversation is perhaps her strongest legacy.”
Former Minister also paid tribute to Thatcher during his State of the Nation show. He said: “Today marks 50 years since Margaret Thatcher became leader of the Conservative Party, the first female leader of a major political party in the Western world. When she became the Tory leader in February 1975, few could have predicted the fundamental impact she would have not just on Britain but on the world stage, going on to win three consecutive general elections.”
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The politician left behind a controversial legacy (Image: Getty)
Rees-Mogg highlighted Thatcher’s political philosophy, quoting her declaration: “I am not a consensus politician. I am a conviction politician.” He also recalled the scepticism she faced, even from her own husband Dennis, who once warned her, “Heath will murder you.” However, Thatcher relished debate, and asserted, “I love argument, I love debate. I don’t expect anyone just to sit there and agree with me. That’s not their job.”
Her tenure as Prime Minister from 1979 onwards saw sweeping economic and social changes, from privatization to major confrontations with trade unions. These policies continue to shape British politics today.
Reactions to the anniversary remain deeply divided. GB News viewers weighed in on the ongoing debate about Thatcher’s legacy, with some praising her decisive leadership, while others criticized her policies. Dorothy hit out at her for being a “milk snatcher,” while Chris commended her for “saving the Falklands”.