EGYPT.

Press, Volume LIX, Issue 17742, 19 April 1923, Page 9

EGYPT.

KING AND CABINET. CONTEST OVER CONSTITUTION. (BT OiBLJS-»MSS A BSOCIA*»*-COmM«T.J (MJSMULIAN WTO K.Z. CABM ABSOOUTIOI.; (Received April 18th, 7.20 p.irf.) UONDON", April i 7. A Cairo telegram says popular resentment is increasing against the postponement of the promulgation of the new Constitution. It is becoming clear that the reason is a contest between the Cabinet! and the Palaoe regarding vital details. Wide publicity has been given in the native Press to an open letter by '* member of the Constitution OommisB ion to the Premier which has caused a sensation. It sets out the King 8 alleged claim to be temporal and spiritual head of the country, especially to have sole control of the nomination of religious functionaries, which would give him a battalion of agents throughout the country qualified to sway the people. According to a summary of th© letter in the "Morning Post," the King further demands that the Cabinet Ministers approach him only indirectly through members of his Court, which would weaken their position. The King also claims control of Egyptian Ambassadors and Consuls, which would practically, give him control of foreign affairs, also liberty to distribute honours. The fact that the allegations are tinrebutted is convincing the public that a majority of the Egyptians are opposed to absolutism. The Arabio Press says there will be open revolt if the King attempts to become a mediaaval despot.