GREEK MONARCHY

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22720, 5 November 1935, Page 9

GREEK MONARCHY

RESTORATION PROBABLE FIRST RESULTS OF PLEBISCITE (United Press Association) (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) ATHENS, November 3. The first results of the plebiscite are overwhelmingly in favour of restoration of the monarchy. The result will be known on November C. The new laws forbid criticism of the Royalist regime. The press is censored, and the army and police are organised to ensure a Royalist ma^rity. KING GEORGE IN LONDON LONDON, November 4. (Received Nov. 4, at 9 p.m.) King George of Greece, after lunch, went for a long walk alone through London streets. Afterwards he visited the Duke and Duchess of Kent and later dined at a West End hotel with his equerry, Major Levidcs.

The King has continually received telephone messages and cable messages from Athens. He greeted with obvious pleasure the final message stating that 98 per cent, voted for his return. POINTS TO BE CLEARED UP LONDON, November 4. (Received Nov. 4, at 11.15 p.m.) A close friend of King George of Greece told the Daily Telegraph early this morning it was unlikely that the King would return with the delegation which is expected from Athens. There were many questions to be discussed. The King did not favour a Republican monarch, as expressed in the plebiscite papers, and it would be suggested that a constitutional monarchy be formed similar to that in England. The King expressed the opinion that a Republican monarch would mean another plebiscite on his death to elect another King, whereas under a constitutional regime the King would be succeeded by his heir. His Majesty was naturally gratified and thankful at the result of the plebiscite, but wished several points cleared up.

NEW COINAGE ORDERED ATHENS, November 4. (Received Nov. 4, at 10 p.m.) The Government telegraphed to King George of Greece stating that the Hellenic people voted freely and without constraint 05 per cent, in favour of restoration. General Kondylis announced that political parties would be abolished and the King would bo the legitimate Sovereign. Venizelists largely abstained from voting. Four million Greeks were ordered to vote under a penalty of £2O. New coinage has been ordered bearing the King’s head.