Rumanian Events Very Grave, Carol Says

Northern Advocate, 12 January 1948, Page 3

Rumanian Events Very Grave, Carol Says

LISBON, Sun. (11.30 a.m.)— Rumania’s ex-King Carol, in a statement to the Press, said he considered Rumanian events extremely grave for the international situation, reports Reuters. The replacement of the monarchy with the Democratic Popular—or rather Soviet —Republic marked a Communist step forward in Europe.

With the systematic elimination of democratic elements. Rumania was walkirtg towards catastrophe. "I deplore my son’s resignation, and I believe that the 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 liberty depend on the civilised world's victory." TITO'S HAND Ex-King Michael was compelled to abdicate after Marshal Tito, the Yugoslav leader, “imposed the principles of the Comintern,” said the ex-King's aide, Major Vergotti, to the Associated Press correspondent. Ex-King Michael’s unofficial engagement to Princess Anne was another reason why he was forced from the throne.

When the King returned to Rumania, the decision had been made that the country was to become a Republic. “When we arrived at Bucharest j there were no flags to greet the King, ’ he added. “That was their gratitude to the boy who had shortened the Second World War by six months.” . Major Vergotti said ex-King j Michael’s immediate future was uncertain. He might settle in Switzerland and eventually marry Princess Anne, whom he “really loves.” i He was concerned about the fate of | relatives and friends still in Rumania, I and was making efforts to obtain exit! visas for them. WORRIED ABOUT MONEY Reports from Switzerland state that ex-King Michael is worried about money and is selling two of the four cars which he brought with him to Lausanne. Princess Anne has arrived in Luxembourg, where siie is tire guest of the Grand Duchess. Before leaving Denmark she said: “I am so happy. I am looking forward so much to seeing Michael again.” Reuters Luxemburg correspondent said Princess Anne said she would soon be going to France to meet her fiance. The date and place of the wedding had not been chosen yet. The Associated Press correspondent at Bucharest says ex-King Michael’s aides, member of the military household and the King’s Flight have been placed on the reserve of officers. They include three generals.

Major Vergotti admitted that the Communists might use the “romantic entanglement” with Princess Anne to represent Michael as abdicating to “enjoy himself.” He said Princess Anne would not join ex-King Michael yet. “This is not the moment for that sort of thing,” he added. THEIR GRATITUDE! Michael hoped eventually to return to the Rumanian throne. He was determined always to stand by his people as his first duty. Marshal Tito spent a week in Rumania in December, when Michael was at Lausanne, he said.