ABSTRACT
On 3 February 1965 Her Majesty’s Government announced in both Houses of Parliament the establishment of the Sports Council,1 which was warmly welcomed by many but opposed by some who were fearful that this dramatic step would alter for ill the status quo in British sport.2 There were those who feared for their positions in sport carrying, as such positions do, power and prestige that might now be in some way diminished. Others, less reactionary and more in tune with developments in Europe and elsewhere, saw this action as a giant step towards a new era, with the Government playing a strong supportive role but not wishing to be involved in day-to-day policy.
