THE KING’S CHOICE

Evening Star, Issue 22515, 7 December 1936, Page 8

THE KING’S CHOICE

Awaited by Nation CLIMAX EXPECTED TO-NIGHT Mr Baldwin May Disclose Solution Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyright LONDON, December 6.: (Received December 7, at 10 a.m.) To-night’s Cabinet meeting lasted one hour 40 minutes. It may result in a long statement by Mr Baldwin in the House of Commons on Monday, which, may contain a surprise, and possibly a revelation of something of what the King said during the consultations with the Prime Minister after the crisis. A private notice of question from Major Attlee (Leader of the Opposition) may lead to Mr Baldwin disclosing His Majesty’s expressed intentions and more clearly indicating the solution.

LADDUR PARTY'S ATTITUDE NO FINAL DECISION ON ISSUE LONDON, December 6. (Received December 7, at 10 a.m.) Major Attlee’s denial relates to any assurance that he will not form an alternative Ministry. Members of the Labour Party complain that they are completely in the dark about the real facts. A meeting of the executive is fixed for 2 p.m. tomorrow. In the meantime Major Attlee has been instructed to request Mr Baldwin to give him a full statement of the position. He will put a series of questions to Mr Baldwin, which the executive desires answered before the party’s final decision on the issue.

CABINET CONSULTATIONS CONTINUE

LONDON, December 6. (Received December 7, at 10 a.m.) Mr Baldwin returned to Downing Street at 11.50 a.m., having spent the interval with Queen Mary at Marlborough House. Mr Baldwin’s consultation with the Ministers was resumed. The King remained at Fort Belvedere last night. Lights were seen in the windows as late as 3.30 a.m. The Ministers dispersed shortly before 1 a.m., having been in consultation for two and a-half hours. Mr Monckton drove off from Downing Street at 11.55 p.m. in the King’s car, in which he arrived early. He had been at Downing Street for three and a half hours. Officials at Buckingham Palace carried on as usual. The King- is in telephonic communication with the palace from Fort Belvedere. A large congregation at St. Paul’s knelt in silent prayer after prayers for the King and Ministers.

LIBERAL LEADER CALLS AT DOWNING STREET

INDUSTRIAL CONCERN

LONDON, December 6. (Received December 7, at 10.5 a.ra.) Sir Archibald Sinclair (Liberal Leader) called at Downing Street. The car in which Mr Monckton travelled to London in the morning returned to Fort Belvedere in the afternoon with two occupants who could not be identified. " HANDS OFF THE KING " DEMONSTRATION IN DOWNING STREET LONDON, December 6. (Received December 7, at 10.15 a.m.) The Archbishop of Canterbury called at Downing Street as Sir Archibald Sinclair was departing. A man rushed up to the Archbishop’s car and shouted: “We want King Edward and his wife.” The Archbishop of Canterbury spent 50 minutes with Mr Baldwin, and when about to leave two women held up large notices: “ Hands off our King. Abdication means revolution.” Detectives hurried to the car. The crowd took the advantage and broke through the police cordon and filled the street. A woman tried to walk along the street carrying a placard: “ Hands off the King,” and was turned back by the police. She walked along Whitehall, the crowd following. DIGNITY OF THE CROWN PROPOSED MARRIAGE INCOMPATIBLE LONDON, December 6. (Received December 7, at 11 a.m.) The ‘ Scotsman,’ in an editorial, says: “The proposed marriage would he incompatible with the dignity of the Crown. It might bring the King great happiness, to which his subjects cannot be indifferent, but if that happiness were bought at the sacrifice of the people’s devotion and loyalty, lowered

FALSE IMPRESSIONS

DEFINITE MOVE EXPECTED SOON

the prestige of the Crown and caused the debasement of the hereditary monarchy, it would be too dear for the nation, if not for the King. MR BALDWIN'S STATEMENT PROSPECT OF COMPROMISE DIMINISHED (British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, December 6. (Received December 7, at noon.) Close attention is paid by the Press to the Prime Minister’s announcement recording the refusal of the Governments, both here and in the dominions, to introduce special legislation to change the constitutional position of the marriage of a sovereign. Mr Baldwin’s statement is regarded by the newspapers as diminishing the prospect of a compromise arrangement being reached. BISHOP Of BRADFORD REASRN FOR PREVIOUS ADDRESS LONDON, December 6. (Received December 7, at 10.5 a.m.) The Bishop of Bradford told the ‘ Sunday Graphic ’; “ When my address of December 1 was written I had no knowledge of the circumstances which have subsequently arisen. Only- yesterday week I heard Mrs Simpson’s name mentioned in connection with the King.” He added: “My intention to make the speech was confirmed by Communists circulating in Yorkshire scurrilous yellow Press statements regarding the King and Mrs Simpson, and I felt it high time to cut the ground from under the feet of the Communists, who are aiming to create strife.”

FEARS SF CANCELLATION OF CORONATION ORDERS LONDON, December 6. (Received Dec«mber 7, at 11 a.m.) Considerable concern is felt in a number of trades and industries in the north. The manufacture of many thousand pounds’ worth of Coronation goods has been suspended. It is anticipated ' that manufacturers will lose heavily owing to feared cancellation, of orders. SPECIAL PRAYERS IN SYDNEY CHURCHES . SYDNEY, December 7. (Received December 7, at 11.5 a.m.) Many references were made in the churches yesterday to the Royal crisis. Special prayers were offered for the King and his Ministers.

KIM CANCELS PUBLIC ENGAGEMENTS

KING HAS NOT REJECTED CABINET'S ADVICE NO CONSTITUTIONAL CRISIS LONDON, December 6. 1 (Received December 7, at 12.55 p.m.) Prayers for the King were offered in all churches this wintry Sunday, which was a day of puzzled expectancy pending the result of this evening’s 1 Cabinet meeting, at which, however, no decision was reached regarding the issue between the King and the Government. Mr Baldwin will make a statement in the House of Commons to-morrow, in order to dissipate rumours and false impressions. To-morrow’s Cabinet meeting has been cancelled. Mr Baldwin remains at Downing Street and does not see the King to-night. The Associated Press learns on the highest authority that the story published in the ‘ Sunday Special ’ that the King had reached a decision and

QUESTION OF SUCCESSION

that the next step lay with Mr Baldwin is only a clumsy guess. The position ii still much as Mr Baldwin outlined it if the House of Commons on Friday. The suggestion that the King ic being hurried is equally unfounded, in view of the fact that His Majesty’s only request for information was related to the passage of a morganatic marriage law. The advice given thereon was indicated by Mr Baldwin on Friday. The King is being given all the time he requires to make up his mind, and Cabinet is awaiting his reply. There is no truth in the repeated statements that His Majesty rejected Cabinet’s advice. All such conjectures are built up from Mr Baldwin’s frequent audiences with the King, which it is explained have been purely informal. No other Government advice has been given* therefore no constitutional crisis in the broad sense of the term exists and no conflict has arisen, unless Cabinet’s reply to the morganatic ' marriage question can be so described. This corrects Mr OhurchilTs statement, which Government circles feel is based on a complete misapprehension ol the relations between the King and tlu Government.

CRISIS EXPECTED TO IE OVER IY MOHIAI NICHT LONDON, December 5. The Press Association _ understands that there is authority for saying that a definite move will be made within the next 48 hours. The crisis, according to authoritative circles, will be finished on Monday night. The King spent the night at Fort Belvedere, where from Ascot road many lights were seen in the building long after mio'night. ■ The Cabinet meeting ended at 10.40 a.m. It is understood that Conservative members’of the House of Commons met in the smoking room of the House after the adjournment yesterday and decided to send a personal letter to the King assuring him of support in any action he might think necessary to defend his constitutional rights. The movement is described more or less as collective* Other parties were approached, but the result is not revealed. Sir John Simon had an hour’s interview with Mr Baldwin before Cabinet met. The nest Cabinet meeting will be at 10.30 a.m. on Monday, Mr Baldwin left Downing street by motor car at 5.15 p.m. It is understood that he is driving to Fort Belvedere to see the King. The Australian Associated Press states that Mr Monckton, K.C., also had a long interview with the King at Belvedere on Wednesday night. Observers attach the highest importance to it. Mr Monckton visited No. 10 Downing Street after to-day’s Cabinet meeting. Mr Malcolm MacDonald remained at No. 10 20 minutes after the Cabinet. All the King’s staff were at the palace this morning. Sir Eric Mieville also called. The King at present is not expected at the palace. ■ Lord Dawson saw the King at Belvedere last njgbt. His Majesty’s health is excellent. The ‘ Telegraph’s ’ political correspondent says it is understood that Mr Baldwin summoned this morning’* special Cabinet to report the result of last night’s interview with the King. According to the ‘ Morning Post,* further communications between Mr Baldwin and the King are expected to follow the meeting. The ‘ Daily Herald’s ’ political correspondent says the opinion of the Pan liamentary Labour Party ia steadily hardening in support of the view that the authority of Parliament must be upheld against the King’s personal wishes. The ‘ Telegraph ’ says at least 90 per cent, of the Labour members in the House of Commons are prepared to support Major Attlee’s views. It is assumed that Cabinet heard Mr Baldwin’* report of last night’s audience with the King at No. 10 Downing Street. The paper says that there will be no further Cabinet meeting to-day. Sir John Simon returned to No. 10 Downing Street this afternoon, and the Attorney-General visited the Dominion* Office. Mr Monckton remained with Si* John Simon for two hours.

LONDON, December S. After an hour’s audience with the King Mr Baldwin proceeded to London,. It is officially announced that the King has cancelled all public engage* ments, including a two-day tour of tha potteries districts, a visit to Birmingham, and inspection of the Scot* Guards next week, and the opening of the People’s Palace at the East End oit December 12. Well-informed persons emphasise thaß undue importance should not be attached to the cancellation of the King’s engagements, which was done to enable the King to be free to deal with the crisis.

LONDON, December 5. A high authority says the volunitarj abdication of the King would not necest sitate legislative steps to give it effect, but consequential legislation would certainly be required under tbe Act ol Settlement. Succession would pass autw matically to the eldest surviving son il King Edward married and had issue*

[Hit abdication would not affect the sucoeMion, Irat now legislation would be required to establish the issue of the now tKng in the line of succesion. ‘The Times’ says it is recognised sh*t it would place the new Monarch in % invidious position to ask him to the Royal Assent to such a measure. Such an Act would doubtless be presented to Parliament forthwith as the final measure to which the outgoing ißfeneroh would be asked to give assent. MR CHURCHILL'S PLEA LONDON, December 5. Mr Winston Churchill has issued a long statement pleading for time and patience, and urging that the Cabinet has no right to advise the King to abdicate without ascertaining the will of Parliament, which would fail in its duty if it permitted abdication without taking precautions to prevent a repetiifion of such processes. He points out that the King cannot marry for at least five months, which strips the matter of constitutional urgency. The King should not be denied time to consider jthe advice of his Ministers. * SELF-WILL OR SELF-SACRIFICE " LONDON, December 5. The ‘Morning Post’ says: “ The choice before the King to-day is between self-will and self-sacrifice. We cannot believe the decision will be unworthy of the man or the occasion. The police escorted from Downing Street a cyclist whose whole machine waa placarded: “ We want Edward, not Baldwin. The King must not abdicate.” THE KING'S WISHES MT BfMLtSED BY MR BALDWIN LONDON, December 4. 'Although some quarters regard the issue as now clear-cut, the * Daily Mail ’ editorially points out that Mr Baldwin has clarified the issue so far aa the Government is concerned, but has failed in an important respect, as he.has not disclosed the King’s wishes. Mr Baldwin announced the entire rejection of the expedients suggested out of goodwill and affection for the King with the special purpose of safeguarding his personal happiness and retaining his magnificent qualities of leadership for the nation’s benefit. Moreover, the statement contained a further point of immense importance —that Mr Baldwin was satisfied that the assent of the dominions would not be given to the suggested change. The ‘ Daily Mail’ adds: “Much depends on the manner in which the situation was put to the dominions; therefore it is necessary that the communications sent to them should be immediately textually published. The King is confronted with a choice more tremendous' and' difficult than any figure in history—namely, the renunciation of the Throne of the greatest Empire in the world or his own. happiness. The British peoples deeply sympathise with the King in the hour of his tragic decision. They realise his anxiety and grief, and would regard the abdication of their beloved Sovereign as an unspeakable calamity.” A DRAMATIC DAY FULL Mlflß BF MEMBERS IN COMMONS LONDON, December 5. The parliamentary correspondent of ‘ Ike Times * describes yesterday as the most dramatic Friday in Parliament since the general strike in 1926. Many members of the Commons, rarely normally present on private members’ days, attended all day in the expectation of Mr Baldwin’s statement, which is regarded as clarifying the issue beyond the possibility of further confusion, me statement has also convinced memban of the Commons that Ministers are not interfering in the Sovereign’s private affairs. Moreover, it is taken for granted that the King’s advisers in the dominions were equally slow to intervene. It is in the last degree unlikely that any advice or opinion from the dominions would be proffered on their own initiative. It adds: “ A group of commoners representing all parties sent a letter to the King assuring him of support in any action he might think necessary to defend his constitutional rights. It is believed that they include young Conservatives usually associated with Mr Winston Churchill.” Sir John Simon had a conference of 80 minutes with Mr Baldwin. Lord Craigavon has gone to London at Mr Baldwin’s invitation. The ‘ Telegraph’s ’ Dublin correspondent says that the Government by word or act has not revealed feelings of a British crisis. Mr de Valera’s organ, the ‘ Irish Press,’ published a leader restating the facts, but not commenting. Mr J. W. Dulanty, High Commissioner in London, conferred with Mr de Valera and his Ministers, although it is stated that only routine business was transacted. THE CmnmiONAL ISSUE LONDON, December 5. The ‘ Telegraph,’ in a leader, approves of Mr Baldwin’s grave and measured statement of truly focussing the constitutional issue. Nothing is farther from the truth than the misrepresentation that there is some cabal

on the part of the Cabinet to force the King’s abdication. The King himself raised the constitutional issues on what some hold is a small request, unreasonably refused, yet the House of Commons’ approval showed that no conceivable Government would bo prepared to pass the legislation. Those who talk cynically of middle-class morality do not touch the heart of the matter, which is on grounds alike of general principles and their particular application. The introduction of such legislation would be severely reprobated on the highest moral and ethical grounds by an overwhelming majority of subjects. When to these grounds are added reasons of State, it is both u rongheaded and perverse to darken counsel by the infusion of a false, misguided sentiment which will not, or cannot, view the Crown apart from its wearer and the sole link of Empire apart from the well-loved person of the present King. It adds: The dominions also judge the matter from the viewpoint of what is fitting for the Crown and the Empire and from the Imperial standpoint. That is conclusive. The ‘ Telegraph,’ apparently referring to members of the House of Commons’ letter to the King, regards it as utterly deplorable that if what used to be called the King’s Party showed even the faintest signs of an emergence after a lapse of 150 years, it would lead to a more. dangerous constitutional crisis. THE KING FEELING THE STRAIH LONDON, December 5. His Majesty, feeling the strain, stayed indoors all day. Royalties, during another day of tension, frequently conferred. Queen Mary remained .at Marlborough House, and was informed of every development. The newspapers throughout Europe continue to comment, generally hoping for a settlement and expressing sympathy with His Majesty and Britons, except Germany, where the news is still unpublished, and Yugoslavia, where comment is forbidden, and Rumania, where King Carol has prohibited the papers mentioning Mrs Simpson, and has directed that the constitutional crisis be attributed to unemployment problems. MINISTERS SHOULD HOT BE JUDGES MR CHURCHILL’S STATEMENT LONDON, December 5. Various voices have been raised in opposition to the Government’s attitude, of which Mr Churchill’s statement is the most prominent. It says: “I plead for time and patience. The nation must realise the character of the constitutional issue. There is no question of conflict between the King and Parliament which has not been consulted and not allowed to express an opinion. The question is whether the King is to abdicate on the advice of his Ministry, but no such advice has previously been given to a sovereign. It is a case of a wish expressed by the Sovereign to perform an act which cannot be accomplished for nearly five months, and may conceivably never be accomplished. No Ministry has authority to advise abdication. Cabinet has no right to prejudice such a question without previously at least ascertaining Parliament’s will. Parliament would also fail entirely in its duty if it allowed abdication without taking all precautions to ensure that these processes would not be repeated with equal uncanny facility at no distant date in unforseen circumstances. If it be true that the King proposed legislation which his Ministers were not prepared to introduce, the Ministers’ answers should not call for abdication, but refuse the King’s request, which thereon becomes inoperative. If the King refuses his Ministers’ advice they are free to resign. They have no right whatever to press the King to accept their advice by previously soliciting assurances from the Leader of the Opposition that he will not form an alternative Administration, thereby confronting the King with an ultimatum.” Mr Churchill adds; “ In conclusion, there is the human, personal aspect of the King for many weeks under the greatest mental and moral strain. Surely if he asks for time to consider the advice now that matters are brought to this culmination he should not be denied. The King has not the means of personal access to Parliament and the people. The Ministers stand between him and them. Ministers must be careful not to be the judge of their own case. If abdication is hastily extorted the outrage so committed would cast a shadow across many chapters in the history of the British Empire.” " CABINET'S TACTLESSHESS " LONDON, December 5. Major Attiee, when shown Mr Churchill’s references, said there was no foundation for such a statement. Three aldermen, six councillors of Northampton, and Mr R. T- Paget, Labour candidate, telegraphed Major Attlee urging him to form a Government if invited, as a refusal would be contrary to the workers’ interests. A copy of the telegram was -sent to the King. Mr Paget, addressing a meeting which cheered the King, said : “ This King is a King. Let s show him real friends who are going to stand by Sir Stafford Cripps, speaking at Han ley, said that the questions of propriety suggested in view of the lady’s previous history were insufficiently important politically to entitle Cabinet to force abdication. The King was old enough to know his own mind. It was his marriage, not a robot’s. “ We have no discussion. If the lady in question bad been an English aristocrat under precisely similar circumstances quite a different decision would have been reached.” Lord Rothermero said: “ You can’t smuggle the greatest living Englishman

from the throne during a week-end, which a concerted effort is being made to do. I have just returned from a trip round the world. Wherever I went people of all nationalities expressed unstinted praise and admiration of the King. The present indecent haste is producing unpleasant rumours affecting high political and other personages.” The ‘ Sunday Despatch ’ says that there is an uneasy feeling that Cabinet’s tactlessness has forced the country into a false relationship with the King, and urges that the King should follow the example of his father, who successfully composed critical questions of State by summoning outside advisers. ANXIOUS CONSULTATIONS SPECIAL MEETING OF CABINET LONDON, December 6. Although, some quarters express the opinion that the King’s decision may be disclosed on Sunday, the Press Association understands that there is authority for saying that no definite move will be made before Monday, when the climax is expected. Mr Baldwin’s visit to the King, when ho submitted certain documents to His Majesty, was followed by another day of anxious consultations and a continual stream of callers at Downing Street, The Prime Minister, after his return from Fort Belvedere, summoned a special meeting of his Ministers at 5.30 p.m. on Sunday, at which he will communicate the latest news regarding the King’s attitude. It is not likely that a statement will be issued until after this meeting. Sir John Simon, who conferred with Mr Baldwin for three hours this afternoon, returned to No. 10 at 9.45 p.m. Lord Craigavon had a 90-minutes’ conference with Mr Baldwin. He told journalists; “ I have nothing to say, but I trust Mr Baldwin.” The Duke and Duchess of York and the Princesses are spending a week-end at the Royal Lodge at Windsor. PALE AND WORRIED. The King rose exceptionally early and spent the morning in his study reading the newspapers. He conferred with his staff and took only a short walk in the grounds, accompanied by his dog. He ordered the gardeners to cut a large bouquet of flowers, including arum lilies, which later he despatched by motor, only the King and his chauffeur knowing the address ta which they were consigned. The King looked pale and w ied, and he greeted the servants with a grave nod instead of his usual cheeriness. The * Observer ’ says that there is great sympathy with the King. In a painful personal position, His Majesty made a decision with characteristic courage. There is little surprise, in view of His Majesty’s desire for solitude, at the cancellation of the King’s engagements, it being believed that the additional words “for the present” precluded an indication that an irrevocable decision had been reached. MRS SIMPSON'S MOVEMENTS INTERVIEWED BY FRENCH JOURNALIST “ THE’ KING IS THE ONLY JUDGE.” LONDON, December 5. The ‘ Daily Mail’s ’ special correspondent at Blois says soon after her arrival Mrs Simpson put through a telephone call to London, and remained talking for nearly half an hour. PARIS, December 5. * Le Soir ’ published an interview with Mrs Simpson, whom the reporter told all France was following her story with the greatest interest. She replied: “ You Frenchmen are most sympathetic, but most annoying. I have been unable to sleep for the last two days. At the last hotel I stayed there were 24 journalists. I am not getting much rest.” Replying to a further question she said: “I cannot make a statement. The King is the only judge.” Though it is assumed Mrs Simpson spent the night at the Hotel de France, at Blois, on the River Loire, the British United Press says she eluded watchers at 1.15 a.m., and left by car along the Bordeaux road which leads to Biarritz. The police kept up the pretence of guarding the hotel long after she had left, giving her three hours’ start on the newspapermen’s escort. NICE, December 5. Mrs Simpson is expected at the villa of her friend, Mrs Herman Rogers, at Cannes. Eight large trunks and five valises arrived on the morning Riviera express labelled “ Miss Burke,’’- but bearing the initials “W.W.S.” ARRIVAL AT CANNES CANNES, December 6. Mrs Simpson concluded a daylong dash to southern France, taking at full speed at 11.35 p.m. a narrow lane leading to Mr Herman Rodgers’s villa at Lou Vei, and scattering a 100 newspapermen and photographers awaiting her arrival. She lunched at Vienne, where she left the hotel by the back door and changed into a motor car, as the one hitherto occupied was over-fami-liar. She ate a cold dinner in the car at Avignon, fearing to meet journalists. A large crowd of inhabitants watched her arrival at Cannes. The English and F rench detectives are now guarding the gates of the villa. Workmen installed a special telephone which would enable Mrs Simpson to talk with London immediately she arrived. IN SECLUSION AT CANNES CANNES, December 6. (Received December 7, at noon.) “ Mrs Simpson is very tired and is not leaving her room. Probably she will not stay for more than four or five days,” says Mr Herman Rogers. The blinds and windows in Mrs Simp-

son*s room were drawn all day. Police guard the villa grounds at all points. Photographers who climbed adjacent trees were disappointed. The captain of Mrs Reginald Fellowes’s yacht, Sister Anne, which is now in Monte Carlo harbour, was ordered aboard the vessel, probably in preparation for a cruise by Mrs Simpson. Workmen were busy all Sunday altering Mrs Fellowes’s villa at llocquer Brune, near Cap Martin. Possibly Mrs Simpson will stay there. THE AMERICAN PRESS ABDICATION DEFINITELY INDICATED NEW YORK, December 6. The America Press definitely indicates the abdication of the King in typical London despatches. The 1 New York Times’ says: “That the King will vacate the Throne is the penalty of not abandoning his romance with Mrs Simpson. It is now a virtual certainty that he will surrender the Throne without a fight, and quietly abdicate on Monday. This is counted almost inevitable among members of the Cabinet.” The New York 1 Herald-Tribune ’ says: “With his private plane poised for flight to the Riviera, where he hopes to rejoin Mrs Simpson, it is generally assumed that the King’s adbication is close at hand, and that he might fly the Channel on Sunday or early on Monday, leaving Mr Baldwin to announce the news to theworld.” The Press also gives special prominence to the Canberra despatch that the Australian Cabinet has received secret information that the King is likely to abdicate on Monday. SERIOUS AND HYSTERICAL NEW YORK, December 4. The crisis continues to dominate the Press and newspaper circulations are reported to be mounting. The kind and variety of the comment on the news beggars description. A great deal is plainly silly. Some seriously examines the constitutional question, some is vicious, but most, however, is friendly, romantic, typical silly stuff. A despatch from Tokio says that Professor Held, Japan’s leading phrenologist, recommends Mrs Simpson to marry a man with a wide face, a broad forehead, and a heavy jaw. Among many leading Americans who are commenting on the situation is Mr Henry Mencken, who says it is the biggest Cinderella story. Mr Upton Sinclair, second oousin to Mrs Simpson, has cabled a protest to the British Cabinet. A group of Columbia University professors has issued a symposium emphasising the possibility of a compromise with the dominions on the conventionality rather than the constitutionality of the position. Dr Lewis Allen, who officiated at the birth of Mrs Simpson at Monterey, Pennsylvania, comments on her popularity. The New York ‘ Sun,” in a leader, is one of the few papers to express concern for Queen Mary. It says that her perturbation must enlist the sympathy of all. PUBLIC SENTIMENT FINAL ARBITRATOR NEW YORK, December 5. The ‘ World Telegraph ’ says that the public sentiment of democracy is in the final analysis the real ruler. It is sometimes slow to form and act, but once it is aroused it sweeps everything before it, and so the answer will be given by the great rank and file, which as yet has scarcely been heard from in connection with the Simpson affair. _____ THE EMPIRE PROBLEM NEW YORK, December 5. The ‘ Herald-Tribune,’ in a leader on the world issue, says that if the sudden incredible crisis in which the British Crown has been involved has revealed nothing else, it has revealed to thinking citizens of every nation the basic importance of the British Empire in the world structure. The far-flung sympathy with the King is the sympathy that every human being feels, with the appealing theme that the world is well lost in the cause of love; but the problem of the Empire brings other factors into play, No man can say what will happen to the distant dominions if the powerful centralising force of tho Crown is removed. Americans will not pretend to offer advice, but they cannot conceal their profound concern. That a solution may be found before irreparable damage is done will be the universal hope. ENGLAND’S RIGHT TO CHOOSE A QUEEN WHITE PLAINS (New York), December 4. Mr Wedgwood, president of Wedgwood Potteries, says: “ I sympathise with the King, but his first duty is to his country. England has the right to choose her Queen.” CANADIAN COMMENT SUPPORT FOR BRITISH CABINET MONTREAL, December 4. Canadian reaction supports the Cabinet. The press solidly opposes the marriage. A typical loader in the Toronto 1 Globe-Mail ’ says: The simple facts arc that Ill's Simpson is an American twice divoiced, and was introduced to British people as a notorious expatriate. These are drcuinstances that offend the standards Circumscribing the King’s position as a constitutional monarch.

QUEBEC, December 4,

* Lfe Soleil ’ says that unless he abdicates or attempts a revolution, King Edward cannot follow his inclination to marry a person not suitable to his station or the church.

The Toronto ‘ Telegram ’ states that the much-discussed lady is of poor but honest parents. Her widowed mother kept boarders at Baltimore, which was nothing to be ashamed of, and Mrs Simpson was twice divorced. All of which was not an ideal setting for the Queen of Britain. The Toronto ‘ Globe-Mail ’ says that whatever the King’s decision, there is no probability that the British faith in the British institutions will be shattered if the result is not what is best for the Empire. It will be but an interregnum in its progress. MRS SIMPSON UNSUITABLE AS QUEEN OTTAWA, December 6. The Prime Minister, Mr Mackenzie King, cancelled his week-end in the country, and is prepared to call an emergency Parliament. Press comment continues stressing the unsuitability of Mrs Simpson as Queen.CABINET MEETS OTTAWA, December 5. Following a four hours’ Cabinet session the Prime Minister refused to make an announcement, declaring that he could add nothing to Mr Baldwin’s statement. This is taken to indicate that the Cabinet unanimously endorses the British Ministry. RIGHT TO MARRY A PRIVATE MAHER NEW YORK, December 6. Lord Marley, who is visiting New York, in an address to the Foreign Policy Association, said* “ I see no leason why the King’s marriage should bo a public act. The Queen occupies no official position. No- doubt the powers of Government have gained, and the gains have been at the expense of the King. It may well be that this power is carrying us near to a dictatorship. I cabled England that I support the King in any matter touching his right to marry, which is a private matter.” THE PEOPLE'S WISH LONDON, December 5. The * News Chronicle ’ regards Mr Baldwin’s statement as increasing the gravity of the situation in which the personal, constitutional, and political elements are inextricably intermingled. There is, however, a strong and growing desire that the King should marry the woman of his choice when she is free to marry him, but that she should not be Queen. If such a solution is possible the public will give a sigh of relief. SUPPORT FOR GOVERNMENT'S STAND LONDON, December 5. The ‘ Yorkshire Post,’ in an editorial supporting in the name of North England the Government’s stand, says that however great is the affection with which the King is regarded, it does not believe it would persuade more than a small minority to support him in defying the well-weighed advice of Ministers. “ Whatever might be the issue we are confident if a Bill of the type suggested were introduced the overwhelming majority of the public would feel that Parliament in effect had been asked expressly to approve of an example of moral weakness in the highest quarters, and thus provide a deplorable example to the whole country CORONATION ARRANGEMENTS ERECTION OF SEATS CONTINUES LONDON, December 5. Though dealings in Coronation seats are suspended, the erection of them continues along the route. The ticket agencies in the event of cancellation will return 80 per cent, of the ticket money to purchasers. It is stated locally that abdication would result in huge losses in trade. Hostesses are wondering whether to give parties, and organisers of pageants are agitatedly marking time. Dominion and colonial agencies are discussing the advisability of cancelling hotel bookings. SOUTH AFRICAN VIEWS CAPE TOWN, December 5. The ‘ Cape Argus ’ says that the only alternatives are to abandon the marriage in deference to the people s wishes or to abdicate. The problem is terribly distressing. The Empire’s sympathy will go out to the King in his efforts to select the right course. The ‘ Cape Times,’ supporting Mr Baldwin’s statement in the House of Commons, points out that the dominions without a dissentient note claim it is the King’s duty to the Empire peoples to realise that the Monarchy is of deeper concern to its subjects than the Monarch. STATEMENT BY GENERAL HERTZOG CAPE TOWN, December 5. “ There is no reason to assume that the British Cabinet will resign,” said General Hertzog. “ After my mooting at Smlthlield to-morrow .1 will return immediately to Pretoria. Whether a Cabinet meeting will be necessary I shall only be able to say later, it appears at the moment that this will be the case.”

NO COMMENT BY SOVIET PRESS MOSCOW, December 5. The Soviet Press publishes reports of the crisis with Mrs Simpson’s name, but makes no comment. CENSORSHIP IN RUMANIA BUCHAREST, December 5. The Rumanian Press is sharply at loggerheads with King Carol, whose insistence led to the strict censorship of the news of the British Royal crisis. The newspapers are appearing with many obliteration marks. NEW ZEALAND CABINET MEETS MR SAVAGE INTERVIEWS GOVERNORGENERAL WELLINGTON, December 5. ■ Cabinet met this morning at 11 o’clock, and after some discussion the Prime Minister (Mr M. J. Savage) proceeded to Government House and had an interview with the Governor-Gene-ral (Viscount Galway). He returned to Parliament House about 12.30, and the discussions in Cabinet were resumed, continuing until 2.40 p.m. With the exception of Messrs R. Semple, P. C. Webb, and W. E. Parry, who will arrive to-morrow morning, there was a full attendance. The Ministers on tour were recalled by Mr Savage yesterday. Interviewed after the meeting adjourned, Mr Savage said the Ministers had been discussing what the Government should do in certain conditions. The Government had been discussing the whole situation as the information continued to arrive. He added that there was nothing definite at the moment, and beyond that he had nothing to say. It was gathered thar the New Zealand Government was being kept fully posted on the developments from Britain, and, although Mr Savage could not definitely say when there would be another Cabinet meeting, it was likely that the discussions > would be resumed at any time following receipt 1 of any further information. NO OFFICIAL INFORMATION WELLINGTON, December 6. There was no official information available in Wellington as to the possibility of King Edward's abdication. The Prime Minister said in an interview this afternoon that he had _no statement to make on the situation. All the messages he had received direct from the Prime Minister ol Great Britain through the GovernorGeneral (Viscount Galway) were strictly confidential, and no information could or would be made public. In all probability an official statement would be issued by the Government in due time. ALL FACTS BEFORE MEMBERS THE SUCCESSION CONTINGENCY [Special to the ‘ Star.’] WELLINGTON December 7. All the members _ of Cabinet except Mr Parry, who arrives this afternoon, met at 10.30 a.m. to-day for the purpose of further considering the constitutional position,_ and to enable members to become fully informed regarding the despatches from England. Communications of such great importance betwen the British Prime Minister and the heads of the other Governments of the Empire are not sent directly from Mr Baldwin to Mr Savage, but come through the official channel always used on such occasions, from the Secretary of State for the Dominions to the Governor-General, thence to His Excellency’s advisers, the Prime Minister and his colleagues. One of the contingencies which had to be considered was that of a change in the succession, and the view held in parliamentary circles is that there would, under such circumstances, be no necessity for an immediate meeting of Parliament for the purpose of taking the Oath of Allegiance to the new Sovereign. A definite precedent on this point exists in the Demise of the Crown Act, which provides that Parliament is not dissolved in such event, and that at the first meeting of the General Assembly after any demise of the Crown, the members shall take a fresh oath of allegiance to the Sovereign for the time being. The oath to which members have now subscribed is in the following simple form: — I do sincerely promise and swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Edward VIII., so help me God. If, however, any alteration in the law of succession is required, the New Zealand Parliament would need to act promptly in line with the other Parliaments of the Commonwealth. In the preamble to the Statute of Westminster, passed in 1931, there appear these significant sentences: —• ,f Inasmuch as the Crown is the symbol of the free association of the members of the British Commonwealth of Nations, and as they are united by a common allegiance to the Crown, it would be in accord with the established constitutional position of all the members of the Commonwealth in relation to one another that any alteration in the law touching the succession to the Throne or the Royal style and titles, shall hereafter require the assent as well of the Parliaments of, alt the dominions, as of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Cabinet sat throughout the' morning. The Prime Minister was unable to make anv statement upon adjourning except that the meeting would be resumed after lunch. SPEECH BY MR SEMPLE FAITH IN BRITISH CONSTITUTION. WELLINGTON, December 6. “ I have been called to Wellington as a result of the difficulty which has occurred on the British throne. Let us trust that the difficulty which is there at present will fade away and that King Edward will remain on the throne,” said the Minister of I übhc Works (Mr U. Semple), speaking at a banquet in Nelson on Saturday night. “ I am satisfied,” said the Minister, “ that the King is beloved by all .the

people in the British Empire. There was never a time in the history ot the British race when there was a greater demand for goodwill and loya|ty toward the British throne. I say that because recent years have taught us something of the constitutions which 'crumple, of despotic dictatorships emerging and snatching the economic and religious liberty from the people. We have seen nations ruled by cruelty, by force, by the firing squad, and all forms of torture. The world has been a big stage, and we have been one ot the audience, and we should have learned by now to be proud of the fact —yes. we should thank God—we live within the four corners of the _ British Empire, the only Empire which has held steadfastly to the principles of the people being the masters of their own fate. I cast my mind back over tny own political career, and have reason to think of the advantages of the British Constitution. Motherless, and working in a mine at the age of nine, the British Constitution has allowed mo to struggle from pit-boy to a Minister of the Crown, and I would be a traitor to the British Empire if I did not recognise the Constitution which has allowed that to be done.” THE ORDER Of SUCCESSION In answer to several questions we repeat the order of succession to the Throne, as under;— The Duke of York. Princess Elizabeth. Princess Margaret Rose. The Duke of Gloucester. The Duke of Kent. Prince Edward of Kent. The P.rincess Royal. Viscount Lascelles. The Hon. GeraliJ Lascelles,