Rishi Sunak, the current UK Prime Minister, paid a heartfelt tribute to Nigel Lawson, a former Chancellor, during a ceremony held in his honor. Lawson, who passed away at the age of 91 in April, was praised by Sunak for his tax-cutting policies during Margaret Thatcher's tenure as Prime Minister. The memorial service, held at St Margaret's Church in London, was attended by various politicians, including former Tory leaders and Chancellors, as well as Lawson's daughter, TV chef Nigella Lawson.

Sunak's Tribute to Lawson's Tax Cuts

During the service, Rishi Sunak spoke highly of Nigel Lawson's tax-cutting measures, which he described as a testament to Lawson's radical approach to politics. Sunak emphasized that these reforms, implemented alongside Margaret Thatcher, have proven to be effective and enduring. However, some attendees at the ceremony expressed concern about the current tax burden faced by the public.

Politicians and Dignitaries in Attendance

The memorial service was attended by a number of prominent politicians and dignitaries, including former Tory leaders Sir John Major, Sir Iain Duncan Smith, and Lord Michael Howard. Former Chancellors George Osborne, Sajid Javid, and Lord Norman Lamont were also present. Current Cabinet Ministers, such as Jeremy Hunt, Michael Gove, and Kemi Badenoch, paid their respects as well.

The Legacy of Lord Lawson

Lord Nigel Lawson, who served as Chancellor from 1983 to 1989, was known for his significant tax cuts, particularly the 1988 "giveaway" Budget. His reforms were praised for their impact and longevity. However, his tenure as Chancellor was not without controversy, as he famously resigned following a disagreement with Margaret Thatcher over the influence of her economic advisor, Sir Alan Walters.

Lawson, born in Hampstead, North London, in 1932, had a career that spanned politics and journalism. Before entering politics, he worked as a journalist at the Financial Times. He served as an MP for Blaby from 1974 to 1992 and was a strong supporter of Brexit.

The memorial service was a solemn occasion for both politicians and Lawson's family, including his daughter Nigella Lawson, who is a well-known TV chef.