Margaret Thatcher returned to Downing Street for tea with Gordon Brown on Thursday in the Labour prime minister’s most brazen attempt yet to attract Conservative voters.

Baroness Thatcher, who declined an offer to enter through the back door, posed for pictures with Mr Brown. The encounter infuriated activists at both ends of the political spectrum. Downing Street aides said Lady Thatcher brought toys for Mr Brown’s two sons. She talked with the prime minister for 45 minutes before taking tea.