THE KING OF GREECE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22742, 30 November 1935, Page 14

THE KING OF GREECE

SHOWING A STRONG HAND LOYALTY OF THE ARMY ATHENS, November 28. (Received Nov. 29, at 10.30 p.m.) The King is showing a strong hand in dealing with the crisis caused by Cabinet members’ strong objections to the amnesty decree in the form approved by his Majesty. M. Kondylis stated the Cabinet’s views, and mentioned also the names of several senior officers who threatened to resign, whereupon King George summoned General Papagos, War Minister, who, it is understood, vouched for the loyalty of the army, while expressing misgivings in regard to the prospect of several hundred pardoned officers reentering Serbia. . In the meantime, M. 1 Constantin Demerdjis was approached and indirectly asked if he was prepared to form a neutral Government to proclaim an amnesty and hold elections. He appears to have expressed his willingness, providing the attitude of the army was clarified. General Papagos again had an audience with the King this evening. In the meantime demonstrators are attempting to bring pressure on the King. When M. Kondylis left the palace his supporters shouted, “ Long live Kondylis! Down with the amnesty! ” These manifestations do not affect the position of the King, who is winning popular support for his courageous stand for the amnesty, which will enable the Republican leaders to participate in the political life of the country. The King, during the day’s conversations, threatened to leave the country if the opposition persists. It is expected that M. Demerdjis- will form an emergency Cabinet to-morrow.