Chile's former dictator received a public morale boost on Friday when he was visited by one of his most vocal supporters: former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Thatcher praised Augusto Pinochet, saying he "brought democracy to Chile." She also expressed her gratitude for Pinochet's help in Britain's 1982 Falkland Islands war with Argentina.

"The information you gave us, the communications and also the refuge you gave to any of our armed forces, who were able, if they were shipwrecked, to make their way to Chile," Thatcher said.

"Without his help," she told reporters after the meeting, "we in Britain would have suffered a lot more casualties than we did."

Pinochet, 83, expressed his gratitude for the visit, which was broadcast live on British television from the estate where he is under house arrest.

"This is a small house but it is full of love and gratitude for you," said Pinochet. "It's only a small way to thank you for all your kindness, all your love and all that you have brought Senator Pinochet and his family."

Pinochet faces extradition to Spain on charges linked to alleged human rights violations during his 1973-1990 regime. He is appealing this week's decision by Britain's Law Lords that he entitled to immunity from the charges and should be extradited.