A TORY minister has endorsed proposals for the UK to celebrate a “Margaret Thatcher Day” in honour of the former prime minister.

Cornwall MP Sheryll Murray raised the suggestion in the Commons ahead of Prime Minister’s Questions, during a debate on women and equalities.

She said: “There’s no doubt that our first female prime minister led the way by showing women that they could reach the highest office and do the job well.”

She asked what steps the Government is taking to encourage women into politics, adding: “And will she consider a similar accolade to the Falkland Islands and celebrate a Margaret Thatcher Day?”

Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch said she would be “very supportive” of a Margaret Thatcher Day.

“But I think that is probably more a question for the Prime Minister than for myself,” she replied.

The minister continued: “My honourable friend would know that all parties do quite a lot to support women into elected office and I think that’s something we can agree on across the House.”