I won't be shedding tears for Augusto Pinochet

He may have saved Chile from Communism, he may have transformed it into the most successful economy in South America, but the fact remains that more than 3,000 were killed or "disappeared" during his rule.

Baroness Thatcher was said to be "greatly saddened" by the death of General Augusto Pinochet. The reaction by many on the right to his death was sadly predictable. It reminds me of that old phrase: "He may be a sonofabitch, but he's our sonofabitch".

And before the Left rushes to pour scorn on Pinochet's supporters, they are no better when it comes to supporting dictators. Judging by the postponement of his birthday celebrations, that other great dictator, Fidel Castro hasn't got long to go either, and you can be sure that when his time comes, the Guardianistas will be lining up to sing his praises.