The Queen and the Virtues of Sport

Such was the message that the Queen of England tried to get across in her traditional Christmas message on December 25. But above all, 19 months before the opening of the Olympics in London, Prince Charles’ mother directed a cutting remark at the Conservative government, which has done a hatchet job on the budget devoted to sports activities in the schools.

“During this past year of abundant sporting events, I have seen for myself just how important sport is in bringing people together from all backgrounds, from all walks of life and from all age-groups,” the 84-year-old monarch explained, citing the example of October’s Commonwealth games.

“Apart from developing physical fitness, sport and games can also teach vital social skills,” she also said.

“These kinds of activity are common throughout the world and play a part in providing a different perspective on life,” she added, and the team spirit “can benefit communities, companies and enterprises of all kinds.”