No concrete steps for overcoming economic crisis mentioned: Hatoyama’s policy speech

Japan Press Weekly

Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

No concrete steps for overcoming economic crisis mentioned: Hatoyama’s policy speech

In his first policy speech at the January 29 Diet meeting, Prime Minister Hatoyama Yukio failed to provide concrete measures to break through the economic crisis or solve U.S. base issues.

Although he stated that the national medical system is at the brink of collapse due to the annual cut in the growth of expenditures on social services, he did not mention the abolition of the medical insurance system for the elderly aged 75 and older, which the government has postponed reneging on its campaign promise in disregard of the people’s expectation.

The prime minister proposed a drastic revision in the work conditions of temporary workers but avoided mentioning major corporations’ responsibility for collapsing the labor market.

Concerning financial resources, he showed off the result of the government’s budget screening process, although the draft budget for FY2010 has increased the military budget and maintained generous tax breaks for large corporations and the wealthy.

“The importance of the Japan-U.S. alliance remains unchanged, and is essential as the foundation to create a community in Asia,” said Hatoyama, who also stated that the government will decide by the end of May on a place to relocate the U.S. Marine Corps Futenma Air Station in Okinawa.

He said that the government will send the Self Defense Forces to Haiti to take part in the U.N.-led peace keeping operations (PKO).

The prime minister did not explain about his alleged funds fabrication or mention the funds scandal involving the DPJ Secretary General Ozawa Ichiro.

He expressed his hope for discussions to take place on the proposed reduction of the number of Dietmembers.

- Akahata, January 30, 2010