Page:Ford, Margaret Thatcher, British Ambassador Sir Peter Ramsbotham - September 18, 1975(Gerald Ford Library)(1553236).pdf/4

 We will get over our economic problems. The longer I am in politics, the more I realize the big problem is carrying public opinion along.

How long have you been in Parliament?

Sixteen years, and nine more trying. I have many Jews in my district, but I think you are much more susceptible to pressure groups.

That is true, I think it is because we have no party discipline to hide behind.

Politicians all need scapegoats -- and there are those who seek headlines by bolting.

I think you could help on Cyprus by trying to insist, if the embargo is lifted, that progress has to be made. We can't allow the situation to just sit.

I think the Nine could help there.

That would be helpful. It would be tragic if the embargo is removed and there is no progress. We would never again be able to use that case.

It was a real pleasure to meet with you. Please let me once again congratulate you on being the first woman head of a major Western party. It may be a forerunner of a lady in the White House.