Abe in policy speech clings to rejected policies of 'structural reform' and constitutional revision

   In the policy speech delivered to the Diet on September 10, Prime Minister Abe Shinzo expressed “deep remorse” over the ruling Liberal Democratic and Komei parties’ crushing defeat in the recent House of Councillors election. However, he failed to say what he reflected about and showed his high-handed stance by stating, “We must not stop this reform. It was out of this sole determination that I decided to stay on.”

   Abe stated that he needs “structural reform” and “departure from postwar regimes.” By stating, “We must not change the fundamental course of reform,” he showed his determination to further promote his basic policies, including the big-business-oriented “New Growth Strategy.”

   Japanese Communist Party Chair Shii Kazuo made the following comments on the prime minister’s policy speech:

   “Prime Minister Abe is clinging to the very policies against which the public gave a severe judgment in the House of Councilors election.

   The prime minister repeatedly stressed that he will advance the ‘structural reform’ and the ‘New Growth Strategy’ that based on the law of the jungle help to increase poverty and social disparities. He also stressed the notions of a ‘departure from the postwar regimes’ and the ‘creation of beautiful Japan,’ slogans to impose the adverse revision of the Constitution.

   Without making any self-criticism of his policies to which the public said ‘No,’ the prime minister simply repeated his election campaign speeches. This policy speech lacks substance altogether.

   Concerning the corruption scandals involving his cabinet members, he did not talk about his own responsibility as the appointer or show any repentance for his way of dealing with this issue despite the public criticism.  Although he expressed regret, it was really empty of meaning.”　　　　　　- Akahata, September 11, 2007