RULER MAY ABDICATE

Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 29, 29 October 1934, Page 9

RULER MAY ABDICATE

King of Siam’s Differences With Parliament PAPERS NOT YET SIGNED By Telegraph.—Press Assn. —Copyright. (Received October 29, 12.15 a.m.) London, October 28. It is understood that the Klug of Siam, King'Prajadhipqk, lias decided to abdicate follov lug differences between the King and Parliament , regarding changes in the law on capital punishment ind the question of taxation on personal estates. The heir is the Prince of Sigora. who is at present in Switzerland. It is stated that efforts are being made to persuade the King to change ills mind. The King of Siam is at present visiting London. He announces that he has intimated his desire to but lias not yet signed the documents. The communique explains that tin.' King alone, from ancient times, has held the power of-life and death. The Siamese criminal code provides that the King must approve of sentences of death, but the Assembly recently passed a law amending the provision, which fits Jlajesty refused to sanction, holding that the people ought to decide such an important change by plebiscite or a general election, especially as it was passed only after a heated debate. The Government contended ' that the change would only bring Siam into line with monarchies where the sovereigns do not sign the death warrant but only have the right of pardon.

The King asked that a law regulating the procedure of petitions for mercy should be passed to prevent an execution being carried out before he made his decision upon it. but the Assembly rejected the request. Accordingly the King feels that he is no longer able to act. in defence of the people’s rights and liberties. He adds that the Assembly does not fully represent the. people', as the Premier. Mr. Phyabahol. was nominated by only half the members,

The King of Siam has been called the world’s smallest ruler. It is said that his present visit to Europe was partly due to a desire to see the late Dr. Dollfuss. who. he was told, was smaller.

A Singapore message states that the latest reports from Siam indicate that the people and army are solidly monarchist, but are largely inarticulate. Jfany royalists are still in prison. Jleanwhile the Government is getting more and more in the hands of terrorists and opportunists.