London ? Former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was hospitalized in stable condition in central London on Saturday and was undergoing medical checks, authorities said.

St. Thomas’ Hospital said the former leader, 82, was expected to spend the night in hospital for observation.

“We can confirm that Baroness Thatcher has been admitted to St. Thomas’ Hospital and is expected to remain in hospital overnight for observation,” the hospital said in a statement. “Her condition is stable and she is speaking to the medical staff who are caring for her.”

Thatcher – Britain’s first female prime minister – has often appeared at private functions in recent years but makes few public statements.