"SA pilot seeks deal to give evidence against Thatcher"

Star witness says Thatcher funded and tested helicopter for Equatorial Guinea plot

Sir Mark Thatcher must have been hoping this year would be better than the last. But with his trial for allegedly breaking South Africa's anti-mercenary laws - maximum sentence 15 years - and with a number of former associates apparently lining up to give evidence against him, the signs are not looking good.

The Guardian has learned that the star witness against Sir Mark has revealed the most detailed allegations yet of his role in a west African coup attempt, including a series of hitherto unknown meetings in which the son of the former British prime minister, Lady Thatcher, is described as an "investor".

Crause Steyl, a South African pilot convicted last month of violating South Africa's foreign military assistance act for his role in the botched coup in Equatorial Guinea, has agreed to testify against Sir Mark in return for escaping a hefty jail sentence.

Mr Steyl says the old Harrovian was fully aware of the coup and was instrumental in choosing and paying for a helicopter for the mission.

Full Article : guardian.co.uk