• Text size      
  • Send this article to a friend
  • Print this article

Prime Minister's menu dilemma

Sea slugs and jam sandwiches caused concern for Margaret Thatcher as she haggled over an official banquet.

The former prime minister's first overseas visit in 1982 after the Falklands was to Japan, China and Hong Kong. Struggling between the "conflicting calls of economy and prestige", Lady Thatcher argued in favour of the 50 Yuan menu rather than the 75 Yuan option, saving about £1200.

Contextual targeting label: 
Food and drink

Commenting & Moderation

We moderate all comments on HeraldScotland on either a pre-moderated or post-moderated basis. If you're a relatively new user then your comments will be reviewed before publication and if we know you well then your comments will be subject to moderation only if other users or the moderators believe you've broken the rules, which are available here.

Moderation is undertaken full-time 9am-6pm on weekdays, and on a part-time basis outwith those hours. Please be patient if your posts are not approved instantly.