Former Thatcher Minister Norman Tebbit Dies Aged 94

Norman Tebbit, a prominent Conservative politician and staunch ally of Margaret Thatcher, died at the age of 94. Rising from a working-class background, Tebbit was instrumental in curbing trade union power through legislation such as the 1982 Employment Act, which restricted the closed shop and held unions liable for unlawful acts. He was seriously injured in the 1984 IRA Brighton hotel bombing, which left his wife permanently paralysed, an ordeal that deeply shaped his views on terrorism and forgiveness. Known for his blunt and often controversial opinions, including the infamous 'on yer bike' remark about unemployment and the 'cricket test' regarding British identity, Tebbit remained a combative figure in politics while privately caring deeply for his wife. He also played a major role in Thatcher's 1987 election landslide and later became chairman of the Conservative Party. Despite his reputation as a hard man, those close to him recall a kindly nature beneath his abrasive public persona.