Remarkable Rise Of Khrushchev In Russia

Press, Volume XCI, Issue 27563, 21 January 1955, Page 11

Remarkable Rise Of Khrushchev In Russia

(Special Correspondent N.Z.P.A.) (Rec. 8 p.m.) LONDON, Jan. 20. Discussing what he calls the “remarkable” rise to prominence of Mr Nikita Khrushchev in the Soviet hierarchy since he became Secre-tary-General of the Communist Party in March, 1953, the diplomatic correspondent of “The Times” emphasises that any indication of possible dissension in the Kremlin should be treated with reserve, but says that it’ is certain that Mr Khrushchev alone now rivals Mr Malenkov in prominence. “At present, although there may be indications, there is no proof that any clash is likely. “The most that can be said is that what appears to be the present system

of committee rule has never lasted long in an authoritarian State; and that important decisions on application of Soviet resources—for instance to agriculture and consumer goods, or to heavy industry and scientific research—have to be taken at the present time. “Such decisions might obviously be the genesis of a split in the Communist hierarchy.

“Mr Khrushchev delivered a report on Soviet agriculture to the Plenum of the Central Committee in September. 1953.

“He is responsible for agricultural policy, but he also plays a leading part in other and most important branches of government.

“H& was given much publicity during the celebrations on the 300th anniversary of the union of Ukraine with Russia in May, 1954. “In September and October Mr Khrushchev led the Soviet delegation which negotiated the Soviet-Chinesg treaty, probably the most importatf treaty signed by Russia since the “It can be argued that Mr Khrusb» chev has taken an important hand foreign policy, but not too much caß be made of this, for it should be remembered that Mr Molotov had spent three months in the summer at Geneva. “Whether or not the prominence achieved by Mr Khrushchev indicates any real shift of power between him and Mr Malenkov, it is a fact that the latter has made no major speech since the session of the Supreme Soviet in April.’’