341. Telegram From the Consulate General in Thessaloniki to the Department of State0
91. Most significant statement to emerge from three and half hours lunch January 14 with Northern Greek CU leaders at home Bacatselos was measured statement by Deputy Pasmatzides that “unless King terminates favoritism to Caramanlis and returns to neutral role, CU prepared to raise constitutional question and attempt remove both King and Crown Prince from scene”. Whether this statement designed as blackmail in obvious hope it will reach King or is advance warning not made clear. In any case circumstances of statement, during deliberate lull in conversation, presence of Bacatselos, Ioannides of Macedonia and CU Deputy Karaghiozis, plus strong emphasis, subsequent reiteration, and reference to “allied favoritism” to Caramanlis, make clear statement not idle theatrics. Indeed appears luncheon was scheduled so statement could be made. Airgram follows.1