P.M. BRIEFING : Swedes Spurn Royal Work Ethic
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STOCKHOLM — Swedes were in an uproar today over their king’s unprecedented comment that the Swedish work ethic leaves something to be desired.
“I suppose that we maybe should think about the Swedish work ethic and try and improve it in one way or the other. I assume we’re all aware that it is not the best,” King Carl XVI Gustaf, 44, told Dagens Industri in an interview Thursday.
The Swedish monarch rarely speaks out on political or controversial matters.
Reaction came swiftly. Some people agreed with the king but others suggested he was speaking for himself and his acquaintances.
“I wonder if he ever tried to work himself,” said librarian Anna Simkutte, labeling the royal comment “utmost rubbish.”
“I suppose that the king makes his statement from the circles where he dwells himself,” labor federation spokesman Staffan Kellerborg said.
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