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Thatcher questioned in U.S. DeLay probe

LONDON, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was questioned in connection with the U.S. Congressional inquiry into leading House Republican Tom DeLay.

A document leaked to the Daily Mirror shows the U.S. Justice Department asked the Metropolitan Police to question the former Conservative leader over a meeting she held with DeLay in 2000.

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A spokesman for Thatcher confirmed police had contacted her office in order to "clarify" details of the meeting.

The leaked document says the U.S. investigation centers on the activities of Jack Abramoff, a film producer and high-profile lobbyist who has raised thousands of dollars for the Republicans.

"U.S. officials are investigating whether Abramoff was involved in obtaining legislative assistance from public officials in exchange for arranging and underwriting trips to (Britain,)" the document says. "It is alleged that Abramoff arranged for his clients to pay for the trips to the U.K. on the basis that Congressman DeLay would support favorable legislation if they paid for the trip."

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