Aneurin Bevan was a Welsh politician and statesman. He is best known for his role in the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, as the Minister of Health in the post-war Labour government. Bevan's efforts to create a comprehensive healthcare system accessible to all regardless of income or social status have had a lasting impact on public health and social policy in the UK.
This quote metaphorically compares politics to a highly competitive and often aggressive activity that involves intense conflict and a willingness to confront opponents.