Shirley Tart: Wry and witty Theresa is the cream of the crop – just ask the milkman

One of my interviews with Theresa May when she was still Home Secretary turned into a thoroughly entertaining, over-dinner chat.

Not least because of her wry and dry sense of humour, which others sometimes miss.

And that was when she told me the funny story about the milkman – the one who delivered to the May household, that is.

He had seen his customer’s new role flagged across all the front pages and so armed with a newspaper, knocked on the door and royally congratulated the lady of the house on her appointment before asking solemnly: “Will this affect your milk requirements?”

I recall that then she assured him it would not. Now? Well, things have certainly changed big-time for Theresa and Philip May.

And if she wins her June general election, many pints (or litres depending on your European feelings) will doubtless pass under the bridge before Prime Minister May needs to address the question of their milk supply again!

I have interviewed her on a number of occasions over the years and always admired the resolve and commitment to whatever her job may have been at that time. She does not shake or cringe, and cowering is not in her resolute nature.

As Home Secretary, Theresa May weathered more than a few unsympathetic audiences and as the blessed Brexit issue hung over us (still does) like a threat, she endured with dignity that ill-mannered and unpleasant reaction from a European gathering which chose to ignore her.

Some say that her ‘safe pair of hands’ have served their turn and it’s time for a more dynamic pair to take their place. I happily disagree.

This Prime Minister is solid, down to earth and determined. She deals brilliantly with her diabetic condition and all that entails.

She travels wherever the job demands, she looks good but is much more a rounded politician than many choose to think.

For my money, the Rt Hon Theresa May is earning her spurs. I just wonder what the milkman thinks now as he considers her milk requirements!