EX-KAISER'S PROPERTY

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 19 June 1926, Page 7

EX-KAISER'S PROPERTY

MOMENTOUS REFERENDUM

TO BE TAKEN ON SUNDAY

(By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) (Australian & N.Z. Cable Association.)

BERLIN, June 17

All Germany is on the tiptoe of expectation in view of the momentous referendum on Sunday on the question of confiscation or otherwise of the vast valuable properties dawned by the exKaiser. The ballot paper is a simple document requiring a cross in a circle for or against. Whichever side wins what is virtually a conflict of ropnhlic versus monarchy, will enormously strengthen the political position. The campaign on behalf of confiscation has been vigorously carried on, though no voice has been officially raised on behalf of the Doom exile. Nevertheless it is difficult to forecast the result. Twenty million at least must vote in favour in order to carry the day. That the exKaiser will be reduced to beggary even if confiscation is carried, is of course nonsense. He will be given a pension, together with some property which he unquestionably owns. He will remain a rid) man, as will also his ex-royal colleagues. The ex-Kaiser at present receives the equivalent of £SOO weekly from the republic. Furniture, plate, and art objects which lavish the Doom residence represent a substantial fortune." He received £50,000 from one hook and is asking £60,000 for a manuscript just completed. He remains extraordinarily extravagant, and is scarcely able trf' balance his budget. The ballot concerns ninety castles, 600,000 acres of land, and fifty millions in money.