KING LEOPOLD

Press, Volume LXXXIV, Issue 25390, 13 January 1948, Page 7

KING LEOPOLD

CABINET AUTHORISES NEGOTIATIONS LONDON, January 11. “The Belgian Government has authorised the Prime Minister (Mr PaulHenri Spaak) to negotiate with King Leopold, who is now in Switzerland, in a final effort to solve the ‘Royal question,’ ” says the Brussels correspondent of the “Daily Herald.” “The Socialists are ready to discuss the accession of Prince Baudouin, aged 17 King Leopold’s heir, and it is believed that King Leopold is agreeable. , ’ “King Leopold, in a letter to the Cabinet, is said to have expressed satisfaction with the recent statement by Mr Spaak that the King’s honour would not be discussed.” EVENTS IN RUMANIA STATEMENT BY FORMER KING CAROL LONDON, January 11*. Former King Carol of Rumania, in a statement to newspapers in Lisbon, said he considered that events in Rumania were extremely grave for the international situation. The replacement of the monarchy with a democratic popular—or rather Soviet — republic marked a Communist step forward in Europe. With the systematic elimination Of democratic elements, Rumania was walking towards a catastrophe. • “I deplore my son’s resignation and I believe that his act could only have been imposed by force,” he said. “I am happy to know that my son is safe. The integration of Rumania in the Soviet system is contrary to the Rumanian people’s spirit. Their future and their liberty depend on the civilised world’s victory.” A spokesman for Michael’s father said that Carol was very pleased that Michael had found a bride worthy of him. He fully approved the marriage.