Margaret Thatcher has died.
The former Prime Minister, latterly known as Baroness Thatcher, passed away at the age of 87 today after suffering a massive stroke.
Lord Bell announced the news to the press, saying: It is with great sadness that Mark and Carol Thatcher announced that their mother Baroness Thatcher died peacefully following a stroke this morning.
One of the twentieth century's most iconic political figures, Thatcher Britains first and only female Prime Minister held office from 1979 to 1990.
Tributes have been pouring in.
Prime Minister David Cameron
'It was with great sadness that l learned of Lady Thatcher's death. We've lost a great leader, a great prime minister and a great Briton.'
Lady Thatcher didn't just lead our country, she saved our country.
A spokesman for Buckingham Palace
'The Queen was sad to hear the news of the death of Baroness Thatcher. Her Majesty will be sending a private message of sympathy to the family.'
Liberal Democratic leader and deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg
'Margaret Thatcher was one of the defining figures in modern British politics. Whatever side of the political debate you stand on, no-one can deny that as prime minister she left a unique and lasting imprint on the country she served.'
Barack Obama, President of the United States of America
'As an unapologetic supporter of our transatlantic alliance, she knew that with strength and resolve we could win the Cold War and extend freedom's promise. Here in America, many of us will never forget her standing shoulder to shoulder with President Reagan, reminding the world that we are not simply carried along by the currents of history - we can shape them with moral conviction, unyielding courage and iron will.'
Former Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair
Very few leaders get to change not only the political landscape of their country but of the world.
Labour leader Ed Milliband
She coped with her final, difficult years with dignity and courage. Critics and supporters will remember her in her prime.
Sir John Major, Baroness Thatchers successor in office
Her reforms of the economy, trades union law, and her recovery of the Falkland Islands elevated her above normal politics, and may not have been achieved under any other leader. Her outstanding characteristics will always be remembered by those who worked closely with her - courage and determination in politics, and humanity and generosity of spirit in private.
Actress Meryl Streep, who won the Best Actress Oscar in 2011 for her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady
I was honoured to try to imagine her late life journey, after power; but I have only a glancing understanding of what her many struggles were, and how she managed to sail through to the other side. I wish to convey my respectful condolences to her family and many friends.
Nancy Reagan, wife of former US President Ronald Reagan
Ronnie and Margaret were political soul mates, committed to freedom and resolved to end Communism. As prime minister, Margaret had the clear vision and strong determination to stand up for her beliefs at a time when so many were afraid to "rock the boat."
Robert Peston
For my generation, hard to imagine a world without Margaret Thatcher. We still define ourselves by whether we were for or against her.
Lord Sugar
A great lady, she changed the face of British politics, created opportunity for anyone to succeed in the UK. RIP.
Former political opponent Lord Neil Kinnock
I recognise and admire the great distinction of Baroness Thatcher as the first woman to become leader of a major UK political party and prime minister. I am sorry to hear of her death and offer my sympathy to her family.
Former Liberal Democrat leader Paddy Ashdown
If politics is defined as having views, holding to them and driving them through to success, she was undoubtedly the greatest PM of our age.
Baroness Thatcher's former Cabinet minister, Lord Tebbit, writing in the Daily Telegraph
The death of this great lady was a merciful release.
Downing Street has confirmed that she will be granted a ceremonial funeral with military honours. The service will be held at St Paul's Cathedral but, as per her wishes, she will not lay in state.
David Cameron will return home early from Spain, where he had been in the country for talks with EU leaders, this afternoon.
The Union flag in Downing Street is flying at half-mast in Baroness Thatcher's honour, as is the flag at Buckingham Palace.
Floral tributes are being left outside her central London home, although it has been confirmed that she died at The Ritz, where she had been staying since December.
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