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People Like Us: Margaret Thatcher and Me
As a young civil servant, Caroline Slocock became the first ever female private secretary to any British Prime Minister, and was at Margaret Thatcher's side for the final eighteen months of her premiership. A left-wing feminist, Slocock was no natural ally and yet she became fascinated by the woman behind the Iron Lady façade and by how she dealt with a world dominated by men. As events inexorably led to Margaret Thatcher's downfall, Slocock observed the vulnerabilities and contradictions of the woman considered by many to be the ultimate anti-feminist. When Thatcher eventually resigned, brought down by her closest political allies, Slocock was the only woman present to witness the astonishing scenes in the Cabinet Room. Had Thatcher been a man, it would have ended very differently, Slocock feels. Now, in this vivid first-hand account, based on her diaries from the time and interviews with other key Downing Street personnel, Slocock paints a nuanced portrait of a woman who to this day is routinely demonised in sexist ways. Reflecting on the challenges women still face in public life, Slocock concludes it s time to rewrite how we portray powerful women and for women to set aside politics and accept that Margaret Thatcher was one of us. A remarkable political and personal memoir, People Like Us charts life inside Thatcher's No. 10 during its dying days and reflects on women and power then and now.
- GenresNonfictionPoliticsMemoir
384 pages, Paperback
Published February 12, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 9, 2020
An interesting commentary on women in power, and recounting the last of Thatcher's Downing Street years. I'm giving it 3 stars because some of it was a bit slow, and I expected a more feminist theory, as the author is touted as a left-wing feminist in the blurb, however it was still an engaging read.
I feel that Slocock went out of her way to try convince the reader that Thatcher wasn't the worst human being, and that she was empathetic and warm, but I was not convinced at all. Thatcher's stance on family policy was backwards and harmful to the progress to a more equal society, and the fact that Thatcher was kind to a man dying of AIDS was somehow meant to how that Thatcher could be a kind and empathetic person.
The best parts, aside from the look in on daily life in No.10 in 1989-90, were the insights into the nature of women in power and the workplace. I didn't agree with all of the author's interpretations but they were thought-provoking.
While I'm not convinced of Thatcher's humanity, that's not necessarily the point of the book. You can form your own opinion, just at the author did. However, I very much agree with the main takeaway- that we shouldn't dismiss the femininity of Margaret Thatcher, and that it is harmful to do so. She was a woman, and a powerful and inspiring woman at that.
I feel that Slocock went out of her way to try convince the reader that Thatcher wasn't the worst human being, and that she was empathetic and warm, but I was not convinced at all. Thatcher's stance on family policy was backwards and harmful to the progress to a more equal society, and the fact that Thatcher was kind to a man dying of AIDS was somehow meant to how that Thatcher could be a kind and empathetic person.
The best parts, aside from the look in on daily life in No.10 in 1989-90, were the insights into the nature of women in power and the workplace. I didn't agree with all of the author's interpretations but they were thought-provoking.
While I'm not convinced of Thatcher's humanity, that's not necessarily the point of the book. You can form your own opinion, just at the author did. However, I very much agree with the main takeaway- that we shouldn't dismiss the femininity of Margaret Thatcher, and that it is harmful to do so. She was a woman, and a powerful and inspiring woman at that.
December 5, 2020
There are many reasons as to why someone might pick up and read this book. On the face of it, the premise is interesting; a forensic account of Margaret Thatcher from the perspective of her humanity and gender, not just rhetoric or politics.
The book takes place essentially from early 1989 to late 1990, covering Margaret Thatcher's final eighteen months in office. The author, Caroline Slocock, was one of her final private secretaries. Notably, she was the only female private secretary Mrs Thatcher ever had.
Overall, I found this book an enjoyable, perceptive and fresh take on a much-studied public figure. Much of the book is a personal analysis of the many sides of the woman herself - the mother, the wife, and the leader. We can also see where other characterisations, such as a headmistress, and even a seductress are applicable at times.
Caroline's account is styled mostly in a diary format, where an account of a significant day is followed by an analysis, weighing up Thatcher's public face with her private one. There is a didactic element woven in, discussing the general perceptual issues many women face in day-to-day life, for example. These usually relate directly to Thatcher herself, but sometimes relate to the author's own experiences, both before and after her time as a private secretary.
Many of the facts and events in the book reference cabinet member autobiographies, and indeed Margaret Thatcher's autobiographies as well. The book was also proofread by a selection of those personally and politically closest to Thatcher. There are no outlandish claims. I, therefore, took the account to be credible, broad-spectrum depiction of events during those two years.
So, what did Caroline think about Thatcher? The book gently depicts her in many ways as flawed, through the portrayal of her humanity which was seldom publicly seen. We can see, for example, how energised Thatcher was when outside Number 10, talking to real people. We also see her visiting, in secret, an AIDS hospital to talk to patients who were on the brink of death. Her generosity - including thoughtful notes, advice, assistance and gifts - is obvious.
We also, however, see her outbursts, in increasing frequency, aimed mostly at her cabinet ministers. We see her seeking political revenge when she feels hurt. We see her - out of touch - when she refuses to change her view on the community charge (a.k.a the poll tax), even when it is hurting some of her most loyal supporters. Her staunch opposition to the ERM alienated several members of her cabinet at a time where she needed agreement and support more than ever.
The book very much focuses on Margaret Thatcher, the woman. In many ways, we see a more traditional portrait of a woman in private through her nurturing side - mending things, cooking for her cabinet and washing up. Her interest in clothes and frequent hair appointments also adds to this traditional portrait. We can see times, frequently, where Thatcher is most comfortable around men and where the presence of other "strong" women bothers her to varying degrees.
The book wants to portray Thatcher as being symbolic of political feminism in England during the 1970s and 1980s. The author wants to say that a woman holding the highest office in the land (second, arguably, to the Queen) is enough. And in some ways, this is probably true, where a generation of women was inspired to enter politics, but perhaps only as a side effect. She was, however, said to be prouder of being the first prime minister with a science degree than the first woman prime minister.
The book also hints, quite correctly, that appearances are not always reality. That rhetoric from Thatcher herself does not stand up against her actions. Notably, her frequent catchphrase, "If you want something said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman". The book also alleges that Thatcher considered women to be the superior sex (through a remark she made to one of her aides). Yet, despite these strongly pro-female stances, her cabinets during office were almost exclusively male. Her private secretaries were also exclusively male, until almost the very end.
Yet, with women leaders and women of significance she was, allegedly, dismissive and even arrogant towards them, no matter their political affiliation. In fact, there were only two women mentioned in the book she gave substantial respect to - her academic supervisor at university, who came to visit Number 10, and the Queen.
Thatcher happily attended an anniversary celebration of the Good Housekeeping magazine, and a convening of the 300-club (an organisation to foster the election of 300 female MPs), giving speeches that empowered women. She also supported an organisation dedicated to providing advice to parents, donating £1000 of her own money (worth £2500 in today's money) when she couldn't source government support for them. However, in private she disapproved of single mothers. She upheld a universal belief in the sanctity of marriage and, perhaps surprisingly, criticised women who focus on their career and left their children to childminders, even though she did largely the same thing with her own two children.
Finally, the author frequently reminds the reader that Thatcher was very feminine. This defence is to balance out the public characterisation of strong women throughout history (Boudica, Queen Elizabeth I) as being masculine. Where Spitting Image portrayed her as being quite masculine (with the suit and tie), the private characterisation of Thatcher was of someone softly spoken, intelligent and stylish. The author explores the viewpoint of society where older women are portrayed negatively - for example, in fairytales and classic stories often the antagonist is an old woman. Even in The Crown, more recently, Thatcher is depicted as withering and fragile, hoarse and weak. Not at all like the real Thatcher: able-bodied, hands-on and clear.
I decided to give this book a four-star rating. If I could give a 4.5 star rating on Goodreads, I would. The accounts are excellent, and the reflective aspect of each section feels natural and appropriate. There were times where the endings to some chapters felt a little drawn out and repetitive, but this did not subtract from the overall idea of the book. Towards the end, we see a situation where Caroline was snubbed by Thatcher for a due promotion. Despite this, the account is given without any sense of animosity - more a thoughtful recount with the aid of a number of informed perspectives.
In this book we can see many sides to Thatcher. Not just the chemist, the politician, or the leader. But the wife, the mother and the woman, as well.
The book takes place essentially from early 1989 to late 1990, covering Margaret Thatcher's final eighteen months in office. The author, Caroline Slocock, was one of her final private secretaries. Notably, she was the only female private secretary Mrs Thatcher ever had.
Overall, I found this book an enjoyable, perceptive and fresh take on a much-studied public figure. Much of the book is a personal analysis of the many sides of the woman herself - the mother, the wife, and the leader. We can also see where other characterisations, such as a headmistress, and even a seductress are applicable at times.
Caroline's account is styled mostly in a diary format, where an account of a significant day is followed by an analysis, weighing up Thatcher's public face with her private one. There is a didactic element woven in, discussing the general perceptual issues many women face in day-to-day life, for example. These usually relate directly to Thatcher herself, but sometimes relate to the author's own experiences, both before and after her time as a private secretary.
Many of the facts and events in the book reference cabinet member autobiographies, and indeed Margaret Thatcher's autobiographies as well. The book was also proofread by a selection of those personally and politically closest to Thatcher. There are no outlandish claims. I, therefore, took the account to be credible, broad-spectrum depiction of events during those two years.
So, what did Caroline think about Thatcher? The book gently depicts her in many ways as flawed, through the portrayal of her humanity which was seldom publicly seen. We can see, for example, how energised Thatcher was when outside Number 10, talking to real people. We also see her visiting, in secret, an AIDS hospital to talk to patients who were on the brink of death. Her generosity - including thoughtful notes, advice, assistance and gifts - is obvious.
We also, however, see her outbursts, in increasing frequency, aimed mostly at her cabinet ministers. We see her seeking political revenge when she feels hurt. We see her - out of touch - when she refuses to change her view on the community charge (a.k.a the poll tax), even when it is hurting some of her most loyal supporters. Her staunch opposition to the ERM alienated several members of her cabinet at a time where she needed agreement and support more than ever.
The book very much focuses on Margaret Thatcher, the woman. In many ways, we see a more traditional portrait of a woman in private through her nurturing side - mending things, cooking for her cabinet and washing up. Her interest in clothes and frequent hair appointments also adds to this traditional portrait. We can see times, frequently, where Thatcher is most comfortable around men and where the presence of other "strong" women bothers her to varying degrees.
The book wants to portray Thatcher as being symbolic of political feminism in England during the 1970s and 1980s. The author wants to say that a woman holding the highest office in the land (second, arguably, to the Queen) is enough. And in some ways, this is probably true, where a generation of women was inspired to enter politics, but perhaps only as a side effect. She was, however, said to be prouder of being the first prime minister with a science degree than the first woman prime minister.
The book also hints, quite correctly, that appearances are not always reality. That rhetoric from Thatcher herself does not stand up against her actions. Notably, her frequent catchphrase, "If you want something said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman". The book also alleges that Thatcher considered women to be the superior sex (through a remark she made to one of her aides). Yet, despite these strongly pro-female stances, her cabinets during office were almost exclusively male. Her private secretaries were also exclusively male, until almost the very end.
Yet, with women leaders and women of significance she was, allegedly, dismissive and even arrogant towards them, no matter their political affiliation. In fact, there were only two women mentioned in the book she gave substantial respect to - her academic supervisor at university, who came to visit Number 10, and the Queen.
Thatcher happily attended an anniversary celebration of the Good Housekeeping magazine, and a convening of the 300-club (an organisation to foster the election of 300 female MPs), giving speeches that empowered women. She also supported an organisation dedicated to providing advice to parents, donating £1000 of her own money (worth £2500 in today's money) when she couldn't source government support for them. However, in private she disapproved of single mothers. She upheld a universal belief in the sanctity of marriage and, perhaps surprisingly, criticised women who focus on their career and left their children to childminders, even though she did largely the same thing with her own two children.
Finally, the author frequently reminds the reader that Thatcher was very feminine. This defence is to balance out the public characterisation of strong women throughout history (Boudica, Queen Elizabeth I) as being masculine. Where Spitting Image portrayed her as being quite masculine (with the suit and tie), the private characterisation of Thatcher was of someone softly spoken, intelligent and stylish. The author explores the viewpoint of society where older women are portrayed negatively - for example, in fairytales and classic stories often the antagonist is an old woman. Even in The Crown, more recently, Thatcher is depicted as withering and fragile, hoarse and weak. Not at all like the real Thatcher: able-bodied, hands-on and clear.
I decided to give this book a four-star rating. If I could give a 4.5 star rating on Goodreads, I would. The accounts are excellent, and the reflective aspect of each section feels natural and appropriate. There were times where the endings to some chapters felt a little drawn out and repetitive, but this did not subtract from the overall idea of the book. Towards the end, we see a situation where Caroline was snubbed by Thatcher for a due promotion. Despite this, the account is given without any sense of animosity - more a thoughtful recount with the aid of a number of informed perspectives.
In this book we can see many sides to Thatcher. Not just the chemist, the politician, or the leader. But the wife, the mother and the woman, as well.
February 20, 2021
A sensitively written and human account of one of Britain’s most controversial prime ministers. The book is made all the more compelling by Slocock’s own position as a left-wing, Labour-supporting feminist who nevertheless developed a personal rapport with the Victorian-minded PM. It is filled with endearing anecdotes furnished with small details which expose another side of the Iron Lady: bringing a bowl of hyacinths to Slocock’s interview for the position of Private Secretary (“Caroline, I brought these for you, I thought you’d like them”); sending the Downing Street team hand-written letters and silver plates inscribed with “the Downing Street Years”; a touching moment at an AIDS hospice (irony aside); and her emotional resignation statement in the Cabinet Room on that fateful day.
Like Slocock, I hated Thatcher’s policies and the ideologies on which they were founded. The disastrous poll tax, the sinking of the Belgrano, the barbaric Clause 28 and her general attitude to the Irish provoke immense anger in me. But even I found this story difficult to read without developing some grudging fondness for a woman who, whatever we might say, was fiercely determined to bring about change and who believed in what she was doing. I think the balance and fair treatment which Slocock brings to the table is a rare quality in any book on Thatcher and is worth the price of admission.
Slocock’s own story is as interesting as Thatcher’s. Growing up in a humble working-class household, she gained access to quality education through a merit-based scholarship which eventually opened the doors to UCL. She studied English, graduating top of her class before embarking on a PhD in American literature. Owing partially to Thatcher’s chainsaw cuts to arts funding, she was unable to secure employment as a lecturer and abandoned her PhD with a heavy heart. After a demoralising period of unemployment, she was accepted onto the Civil Service at a time when it was rare to find women among the senior ranks. During her stints at the Departments of Employment, Education and the Treasury, she effected many meaningful reforms which improved the state of childcare and early years education, while also driving for all-round greater equality in the workplace. I listen to her in radio podcasts and am always impressed by her combined level-headedness and compassion for other people. I was glad to close this book with a new role model.
Like Slocock, I hated Thatcher’s policies and the ideologies on which they were founded. The disastrous poll tax, the sinking of the Belgrano, the barbaric Clause 28 and her general attitude to the Irish provoke immense anger in me. But even I found this story difficult to read without developing some grudging fondness for a woman who, whatever we might say, was fiercely determined to bring about change and who believed in what she was doing. I think the balance and fair treatment which Slocock brings to the table is a rare quality in any book on Thatcher and is worth the price of admission.
Slocock’s own story is as interesting as Thatcher’s. Growing up in a humble working-class household, she gained access to quality education through a merit-based scholarship which eventually opened the doors to UCL. She studied English, graduating top of her class before embarking on a PhD in American literature. Owing partially to Thatcher’s chainsaw cuts to arts funding, she was unable to secure employment as a lecturer and abandoned her PhD with a heavy heart. After a demoralising period of unemployment, she was accepted onto the Civil Service at a time when it was rare to find women among the senior ranks. During her stints at the Departments of Employment, Education and the Treasury, she effected many meaningful reforms which improved the state of childcare and early years education, while also driving for all-round greater equality in the workplace. I listen to her in radio podcasts and am always impressed by her combined level-headedness and compassion for other people. I was glad to close this book with a new role model.
April 12, 2019
Caroline Slocock was the first female private secretary at No. 10 and was private secretary (home affairs) to Margaret Thatcher and John Major between 1989 to 1991. She was the only other woman in the Cabinet Room when Margaret Thatcher resigned. This book covers a little of her background but mostly describes what it was like in the "No. 10 bubble" during that last few months of the Thatcher reign. The Prime Minister was clearly very protective and supportive of her staff, but appalling to her political colleagues, bullying and denigrating, and then hurt and amazed when they showed disloyalty. Despite being somewhat left wing in her views, the author clearly admired Mrs Thatcher greatly, and hugely enjoyed working in Downing Street. She tries (and struggles) to understand the Prime Minister's contradictions - always keen to see women progress and take responsibility, but very socially reactionary in her views on feminism.The book was interesting for political junkies like me, but a little repetitious, and clearly written in a hurry. It all seems so long ago now.
July 18, 2023
I met Margaret Thatcher. I supported Heseltine. I liked many Labour poiicies but it was defence which made me a Tory in my youth. I wanted the outcome of Margaret Thatchers resignation. I wanted a more moderate Conservative party.
I failed totally in the latter endeavour and my work did not cause Margaret Thatchers downfall.
The author in contrast saw the woman that Margaret Thatcher was in her home, shaped speeches for her and was betrayed by her. But her writing focuses on the person who was Prime Minister for 11 years, not the cartoon often portrayed. It defied my expectations. Thank you.
I failed totally in the latter endeavour and my work did not cause Margaret Thatchers downfall.
The author in contrast saw the woman that Margaret Thatcher was in her home, shaped speeches for her and was betrayed by her. But her writing focuses on the person who was Prime Minister for 11 years, not the cartoon often portrayed. It defied my expectations. Thank you.
July 19, 2021
"We are all hard-working women trying to make our mark on the world and we work and we work and we work "
I need to read more on the Thatcher years, however this was a good starting point by a woman who worked with her but wasn't politically aligned to her. If based on my experiences and the experiences described in this book indicate I do not think the mining unions would have ever negotiated with her. As I said I need to read some more on the era.
I need to read more on the Thatcher years, however this was a good starting point by a woman who worked with her but wasn't politically aligned to her. If based on my experiences and the experiences described in this book indicate I do not think the mining unions would have ever negotiated with her. As I said I need to read some more on the era.
February 12, 2019
A fascinating insight into Margaret Thatcher’s No. 10 through the eyes of a civil servant (and the first ever female private secretary) who had completely different political views. The end of this book was incredibly moving as it captures Thatcher’s and No. 10’s reaction to her resignation and the loyalty and ultimately femininity she showed throughout her tenure as Prime Minister.
March 16, 2019
I picked this up and thought it would be a really interesting way to look Thatcher if done well and I wasn’t disappointed. Very easy to read, Slocock really draws you into the world of No.10 and by understanding that, I do feel as though I understand Thatcher more. I don’t like her any more but I do feel I understand her more and particularly as a woman.
January 31, 2020
A fantastic insight into Margaret Thatcher’s years at Number 10, through the eyes of her private secretary. I would have loved to be a fly on the wall in some of those Cabinet meetings. The author was the first female private secretary to any Prime Minister - and she captures the issue of lack of diversity in the Civil Service extremely well.
August 12, 2022
Interesting perspective on one of the most famous world leaders. A sympathetic and personal view of the woman as well as the prime minister. Definitely a jump outside my comfort zone but a much-needed one examining the treatment of female leaders and the sexism they face even if they attempt to distance themselves.
August 3, 2020
Written by the first female Civil Service private secretary in No 10. Interesting background to the latter part Maggie's "reign", sometimes turgid but, as the author says, despite having no common political ground with MT, she wanted to show the woman not the stereotype.
December 15, 2018
Read my review and interview with the author Caroline Slocock here - its a book that provides a completely fresh feminist take on Thatcher.
January 19, 2022
I have been wanting to read this for a long time and got round to it finally.
Well written and includes great detail about Downing Street and its inner workings
Well written and includes great detail about Downing Street and its inner workings
July 16, 2019
A thoroughly enjoyable work offering insight into a world very few people get to see.
I enjoyed this alternative perspective from a civil servant (rather than a politician) inside the Thatcher administration. Slocock has retold her experiences with humanity, a fair-handed evaluation of the players in the cabinet at the time and a realistic degree of scepticism. I'm very sick of Manichean commentaries on politicians. This is a nuanced portrait of a complicated administration.
This is a refreshing antidote to partisan perspectives.
I enjoyed this alternative perspective from a civil servant (rather than a politician) inside the Thatcher administration. Slocock has retold her experiences with humanity, a fair-handed evaluation of the players in the cabinet at the time and a realistic degree of scepticism. I'm very sick of Manichean commentaries on politicians. This is a nuanced portrait of a complicated administration.
This is a refreshing antidote to partisan perspectives.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews