Message to congratulate the successful London 2012 Olympic bid team

Prince Philip and I have been deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of life and injuries after the terrorist attack in Brussels.

The understanding that we belong together, and are able, through teamwork, to achieve far more than we could do alone, has always been at the heart of our approach.

The baton relay represents a calling together of people from every part of the Commonwealth.

I hope that you will enjoy your time in the United Kingdom, and I am sure that you will find a warm reception awaiting you, your athletes and the visiting spectators.

The success of the modern Olympiads owes much to the significant role that you, the Members of the IOC, play in promoting the Olympic spirit across the world.

I greatly hope that the Elizabeth Cross will give further meaning to the nation’s debt of gratitude to the families and loved ones of those who have died in the service of our...