SUDDEN REVOLT

Hokitika Guardian, 14 September 1931, Page 6

SUDDEN REVOLT

IN AUSTRIAN PROVINCE.

U.LTUMATUM ISSUED*

(United Press Association —By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. J

(Itecemd this day at 12.25. p.m. VIENNA, September 13

There was a sudden revolt in the Austrian" provinde of Sjtyria wlpm Heimwelier or Fascists carried out a carefully planned attempt to gain control of a number of important towns. Following the successful occupation of six large centres Doctor Pfremier, leader of the Heimwelier, proclaimed •himself Dictator of all Austria.

from the suddenness of the outbreak, the authorities mobilised troops and recaptured two towns, but the rebels established headquarters at Leohen and are continuing the revolt.

Leaders of Socialists defence force at Vienna issued an ultimatum to the President that unless Government suppresses the revolt forthwith they will mobilise and march against the rebels thereby precipitating civil war. Two infantry' and one artillarv division are en route for Styria.

Evidence of the thoroughness aid suddenness of the uprising is provided in. the fact that when the peaceful in habitants awoke in the morning they found armed men patrolling the streets and placards posted iip proclaiming Pfremier. as Dictator.

All police on duty in the streets were quickly overpowered and gaoled. Tile homes of the Socialist Mayors wore: visited and they were forced to leave- their beds to spend the remainder of the night in goal. Before morning tliehhntire police force and officials wore enpluired and imprisoned.