781.13/10–3051: Telegram
The Ambassador in Greece (Peurifoy) to the Department of State
1972. After considerable last minute bargaining and reshuffling new EPEK–Liberal Cabinet finally formed in time to be sworn in Oct 27. Apparently against his better judgment Venizelos accepted post Deputy PriMin and Min Fon Affairs but obviously withheld some of his best men from Cabinet posts, possibly to use them in future maneuvers. In any event, attitude Liberal leader will probably largely determine length of tenure of office of new govt.
Cabinet as formed appears no worse than expected. EPEK portion is combination of brilliant individualists and party hacks. Rendis shld make good Interior Min while prospects of intelligent but erratic Kartalis as Coordination Min more uncertain due his known incapacity work in harness. Allamanis in Agric is reputedly able and energetic young lawyer with wide knowledge farm problems. Papas-pyrou of Justice has good reputation but little is known of him or of Bourdaras of Communications. Zigdis, another bright young man, will be without portfolio for present. He also has reputation of being difficult to work with. Papapolitis, formerly regarded as a Leftist, is reportedly unhappy at being given Commerce Min; however, this appointment was an honor for freshman Deputy, indicating his personal friendship with Plastiras. Evelpides in Fin is well known journalist, [Page 517] professor, author, poet and jack of all trades but generally expressed opinion is that he lacks force and will not succeed as Min.
Cabinets surprise package is, of course, King’s “non-polit” man, ex-Admiral Sakellariou, whose post as Defense Min was “recommended” by His Majesty on afternoon Oct 27. Dept will recall Sakellariou was Navy Min in 1947–48 and that he is one of Palace inner social circle. His most recent exploit was to desert Papagos ticket early in election campaign at King’s request and to issue strong public statement against Marshal’s candidacy. However, Canello-poulos confides that Sakellariou has privately made his peace with Papagos and his appointment is by no means unwelcome to Greek rally.
Full reports on all new Cabinet Mins being pouched.