I think the British have the distinction above all other nations of being able to put new wine into old bottles without bursting them.
Meaning of the quote
The quote means that the British are especially good at taking new ideas or ways of doing things and fitting them into their existing systems or traditions without causing problems or disruptions. They can embrace change and innovation while still preserving their established ways of life.
About Clement Attlee
Clement Attlee was a prominent British statesman and Labour Party politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1945 to 1951. He led the Labour Party to a landslide victory in the 1945 election and oversaw the creation of the welfare state, including the National Health Service. Despite facing economic challenges, Attlee’s government is often regarded as one of the greatest in British history.
More quotes from Clement Attlee
Russian Communism is the illegitimate child of Karl Marx and Catherine the Great.
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1945 to 1951
The last of our enemies is laid low.
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1945 to 1951
Democracy means government by discussion, but it is only effective if you can stop people talking.
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1945 to 1951
One layer was certainly 17th century. The 18th century in him is obvious. There was the 19th century, and a large slice, of course, of the 20th century; and another, curious layer which may possibly have been the 21st.
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1945 to 1951
The House of Lords is like a glass of champagne that has stood for five days.
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1945 to 1951
I think the British have the distinction above all other nations of being able to put new wine into old bottles without bursting them.
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1945 to 1951