Japan Press Weekly

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2012 June 13 - 19 [ARTS AND SPORTS]

JCP obtains gov’t agreement to not unfairly intrude on dancing venues

Japanese Communist Party member of the House of Representatives Kokuta Keiji on June 15 succeeded in winning a Cabinet decision that the government “instructs each prefectural police authority to not unfairly search” live music houses and clubs.

Kokuta requested a response from the government in a written inquiry presenting the view that the existing restrictions on dancing under the Entertainment Business Act may infringe on the freedom of expression and the freedom to conduct business.

The government answered that police should not search live music houses and clubs without asking club owners to submit a report or documents. Also, police cannot arbitrarily enter these places for the purpose of supposed criminal investigation or for other administrative purposes, the government said.

However, to Kokuta’s argument that control over dancing under the 64-year-old Entertainment Business Act lacks a logical reason today, the government said, “(Dancing) may undermine proper public morals or harm the sound growth of juveniles” and insisted on the need for restrictions. As to what kind of dance can be subject to control, the government left room for police interpretation.

Opposing a series of recent raids, music lovers in Kyoto began a signature drive calling for a review of the Entertainment Business Act. As of June 16, in just two weeks from its kick-off, they collected 21,184 signatures. The campaign initiators include the well-known musical artist Sakamoto Ryuichi and many DJs and artists.

Lawyer Nishikawa Ken’ichi who is well-versed in the Entertainment Business Act said, “This law came into force to restrict prostitution in 1948 when lawmakers had no clue to the variety of ways in operating businesses such as clubs in existence today.” He stated, “The law is out of date.”

Nishikawa went on to say, “Dancing has nothing to do with such problems as under-age drinking, noise in residential neighborhoods, drugs, or street violence. If needed, existing measures or laws to directly prevent these crimes are available.”

“The dance culture has gained popularity worldwide. Club owners are proud of creating new cultures. What is important is to oppose excessive police crackdowns and defend live music houses and clubs which help to promote musicians and artists,” the lawyer added.