KING AND GOVERNMENT LEADERS FLEE

Chronicle (Levin), 10 November 1947, Page 5

KING AND GOVERNMENT LEADERS FLEE

Received Monday, 10 a.m. BANGKOK, Nov. 9. Field Marshal Phibun Song Gram has established his headquarters in the Ministry of Defence building, with tanks and armed troops, stationed on the alert. The rebel forces ciaimed today that the King and orher Government leaders nave fied from Bangkok. Both M. Pridi Phanomyong, who resigned from thc Premiership

arter tr.-e aeatli ti the Kmg last year, and the deposed Premier, M. Thamrong Newasuwat, are still unlocated. v Bangkok is outwardly cairn and the crowds orderly, but it is reported that army troops loyal to the King are massing for a march on Bangkok to oust the rebel forces. However, informants say that the leaders' of the coup expect no bloodshed because the navy and air force are co-o'perating with the army. Phibun is now supreme commander of the whole of the armed forces. Ex-Premiers- Khnang Abhaiwong and Seno Pramoj had eonference with him and are reported to have agreed to support the coup. It is understood that the Regency Council has agreed to promulgate a new constitution providi-ng increased power for the King with a unicameral Legislature. An announcement on this is

expected tonight. Phibun may not assume the Premiership, but wiii continue as supreme commander. In a statement, he said he acted to save his country from ruin, and was ready to prove to the world his good in-' tentions. ,