The lady’s not for turning

The catchphrase that came to typify Margaret Thatcher as Prime Minister. She actually used these words to describe her attitude of resolve in sticking to her principles in a speech given at the Conservative Party Conference on 10 October 1980. In response to those advocating a U-turn on her part with regard to austerity measures during a recession, Thatcher said in her speech, “You turn if you want to. The lady’s not for turning.” Her speech got a five-minute standing ovation and the phrase “The Lady’s not for turning” made headlines the next day.