英字新聞

２０１２回顧・日本　再生への希望が芽生えた年

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 30, 2012)Positive events in 2012 set stage for nation's recovery２０１２回顧・日本　再生への希望が芽生えた年（12月29日付・読売社説）Many readers must have gained hope and courage from the bright news stories of 2012.　明るい話題に、希望や勇気をもらった人が多かったのだろう。Among this year's top 10 domestic news stories selected by Yomiuri Shimbun readers, the awarding of the 2012 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine to Kyoto University Prof. Shinya Yamanaka headed the list. The opening of Tokyo Skytree ranked second, followed by the winning of a record number of medals by Japanese athletes at the London Olympics.　読売新聞の読者が選ぶ今年の「日本１０大ニュース」の１位は、「ノーベル生理学・医学賞に山中教授」だった。　「東京スカイツリーの開業」が２位、「ロンドン五輪、史上最多のメダル」が３位に入った。Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells developed by Yamanaka have contributed greatly to medical progress toward realizing the regeneration of damaged organs.　山中伸弥京都大教授が開発したｉＰＳ細胞（人工多能性幹細胞）は、傷んだ臓器などの再生医療を実現へ大きく動かした。However, after it was announced he had won the award, Yamanaka said, "I haven't saved even one patient yet [with my iPS technology]." The professor's humble and sincere attitude favorably impressed many people.「まだ一人の患者も救っていませんから」。受賞が決まった後の山中氏の謙虚で誠実な姿勢も好感を呼んだ。Tokyo Skytree has attracted 28 million visitors in the six months since it opened to the public in May. The 634-meter Skytree is the world's tallest free-standing broadcast tower.　東京スカイツリーは５月の開業から半年で約２８００万人の入場者を集めた。６３４メートルは自立式電波塔では世界一の高さだ。If Tokyo Tower, the second-tallest tower in Japan, is a symbol of Japan's past rapid economic growth, what will the popular Tokyo Skytree come to symbolize?東京タワーが高度成長の象徴ならば、スカイツリーはどんなシンボルとして親しまれていくのだろうか。===Good news in sportsJapanese athletes won a record 38 medals--including seven gold medals--at the Summer Olympic Games held in London. In women's wrestling, Saori Yoshida and Kaori Icho grabbed their third consecutive Olympic golds. And many female athletes such as members of the Nadeshiko Japan women's soccer team and volleyball and table tennis players performed superbly.　ロンドン五輪で日本選手団は、金７個を含む３８個のメダルを獲得した。レスリングの吉田沙保里選手、伊調馨選手が五輪３連覇を達成した。なでしこジャパンのサッカー、バレーボール、卓球など女子選手が見事な活躍を見せた。In eighth place on the list of top 10 domestic stories was the Yomiuri Giants' winning of the Japan Series, marking the team's first championship in three years and its 22nd overall.　プロ野球の「巨人３年ぶり２２度目の日本一」は８位に入った。Meanwhile, Hideki Matsui, who had been a Giants slugger for many years, announced his retirement Thursday. Matsui hit a total of 507 home runs while playing for the Giants, the New York Yankees and other major league teams, and won the World Series MVP award with the Yankees in 2009. Fans will take his dynamic batting style deep into their hearts.　その巨人の主砲を長く務めた松井秀喜選手が２７日、引退を表明した。巨人や米大リーグ・ヤンキースなどで５０７本塁打を放ち、ワールドシリーズの最優秀選手にも選ばれた。豪快な打撃はファンの心に深く刻まれよう。The general election held in December, which resulted in the inauguration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's Cabinet, ranked fourth on the list of top 10 stories. Former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda promised the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito he would dissolve the House of Representatives "sometime soon" in return for their cooperation in passing bills related to the comprehensive reform of social security and taxation systems, which ranked 16th in the list of top domestic news stories. Noda kept his promise and dissolved the lower house, but his Democratic Party of Japan suffered a crushing defeat in the general election.　安倍内閣の発足につながる「師走の衆院選挙」は４位だった。民主党は、野田前首相が社会保障と税の一体改革（１６位）と引き換えに、「近いうち解散」に打って出た末の惨敗だった。===Change in governmentThe defeat ended the DPJ-led government's rule, which had lasted three years and three months.３年３か月に及んだ民主党政権が終わった。The DPJ-led administration caused confusion in management of such national issues as the relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station in Okinawa Prefecture, and its election pledges fell through. Many voters must have concluded the DPJ was not qualified to run the country. Prime Minister Abe is expected to draft and carry out realistic polices, and to stably run the government.　米軍普天間飛行場移設の問題などで迷走し、民主党の政権公約（マニフェスト）も破綻した。政権担当能力に欠けると多くの有権者は判断したのだろう。　安倍首相には、現実的な政策の立案・実行と安定した政権運営が求められる。In fifth place on the list was the deterioration of Japan-China relations resulting from Japan's nationalization of some of the Senkaku Islands. For instance, anti-Japanese demonstrators rioted and stormed Japanese firms in China. Improvement of the bilateral ties is a priority issue for the Abe Cabinet.　尖閣諸島の国有化による日中関係の悪化も、５位と関心が高かった。中国では反日デモが暴徒化し、日本企業が襲われた。関係の改善は安倍内閣の重要課題である。The collapse of ceiling panels in the Chuo Expressway's Sasago Tunnel in December, which killed nine people, ranked 7th. Aging infrastructure in the nation should be revamped as soon as possible.　１２月には中央道の笹子トンネル（山梨県）の天井板が崩落し、９人が死亡する大惨事が起きた（７位）。老朽化したインフラ（社会基盤）の改修も急ぎたい。We would like to see 2013 become the turning point in the nation's steady recovery.　日本が確実に再生の道へ歩み出す。来年をその節目にしたい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 29, 2012)（2012年12月29日01時20分  読売新聞）

安倍外交　日米「基軸」で隣国関係改善を

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 29, 2012)Use pact with U.S. as linchpin to improve ties with neighbors安倍外交　日米「基軸」で隣国関係改善を（12月28日付・読売社説）　◆同盟強化へ防衛指針を改定せよ◆A little more than three years of administration by the Democratic Party of Japan has knocked Japan's diplomacy into a serious tailspin. How can it get back on course?　３年余の民主党政権下で大きく後退した日本外交をどう立て直すのか。This is a task of great importance that the Cabinet of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe must address with everything in its power.　安倍内閣が全力で取り組むべき重要課題だ。Abe is scheduled to make a trip to the United States as early as January to meet with U.S. President Barack Obama. The prime minister's visit to Washington appears in line with Abe's belief that strengthening the alliance between Japan and the United States should be the first step toward reconstructing relations with its neighbors, such as China and South Korea. 　安倍首相は来月中にも米国を訪問し、オバマ大統領と会談する。日米同盟の強化が、中国、韓国など近隣国との関係を再構築する第一歩と考えるからだ。Former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama threw the issue of relocating functions of the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station in Okinawa Prefecture off course, causing confusion and disruption in Japan-U.S. ties. 　鳩山元首相が米軍普天間飛行場の移設問題を迷走させ、日米同盟を混乱させた。As though availing themselves of the mix-up, China, South Korea and Russia have each tried to knock Japan off balance over territorial problems. その間隙(かんげき)を突くように、中国、韓国、ロシアが領土問題で日本を揺さぶった――。Such is the common perception among people concerned with diplomatic issues regarding Japan's foreign policy situation. 多くの外交関係者の共通理解だ。===Create a road map for security　◆安保課題の工程表作れ◆The problem is how to hammer out and implement specific measures for beefing up the Japan-U.S. alliance. 　問題は、日米同盟を強化する具体策である。In its platform for the latest House of Representatives election, the Liberal Democratic Party incorporated such pledges as enabling Japan to exercise the right to collective self-defense and again revising the Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation Guidelines. 自民党は衆院選の政権公約に、集団的自衛権の行使容認や防衛協力指針（ガイドライン）再改定などを盛り込んだ。Both are tasks of key significance that the Abe administration must accomplish. Setting an order of priority for steadily tackling them will help to resolidify the Tokyo-Washington alliance. 　いずれも実現すべき安全保障の課題である。一つひとつに優先順位をつけ、着実に取り組むことが同盟関係をより強固にしよう。Expansion of the defense budget, which has been shrinking for 10 consecutive years, is a matter of urgency. The Abe Cabinet should take this into account in compiling a state budget for fiscal 2013.　１０年連続で減少している防衛費の拡充は急務だ。来年度予算編成で考慮する必要がある。Regarding the planned defense guideline revision for bolstering cooperation between the Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military, bilateral consultations should be started at an early date to jointly study specifics.　自衛隊と米軍の防衛協力を強化するガイドライン再改定についても、日米協議を早期に開始し、具体的な検討に入りたい。Under the divided Diet, in which the ruling coalition controls the lower house but lacks a majority in the House of Councillors, it will be hard for the government to pass the set of bills Abe envisions to create a Japanese version of the U.S. National Security Council. 　衆参ねじれ国会の下、首相が創設に意欲を見せる国家安全保障会議（日本版ＮＳＣ）の関連法案の成立は簡単ではない。However, given that the opposition DPJ also has an idea similar to Abe's, the government would be well advised to call for joint consultations on the matter between the ruling and opposition blocs. だが、民主党も同様の構想を持つ。与野党協議を呼びかけてはどうか。But when it comes to solving the collective self-defense right issue, it will be difficult to bridge the gaps in views between the LDP, its coalition partner New Komeito and the Cabinet Legislation Bureau. It would be realistic for the government to place priority first on deepening discussions within the ruling camp by setting a goal of accomplishing the task after next summer's upper house election. 　集団的自衛権の問題は、公明党や内閣法制局との調整が難関となる。来夏の参院選後の実現を目指し、まずは与党内でしっかりと議論を深めるのが現実的だろう。When Abe visits the United States, the issue of Japan's participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact will certainly be high on the agenda. To ensure Japan's national interests are not marred, the government must be determined to take part in the TPP talks as early as possible. 　安倍首相の訪米時には、環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）参加問題が重要議題となろう。日本の国益を確保するため、極力早期に交渉参加を決断すべきだ。The Futenma problem, which has remained stalled for many years, is now heading into a crucial stretch.　長年の懸案である普天間問題も正念場を迎えている。Construction of an alternative facility for the Futenma Air Station can never be undertaken without permission from Okinawa Gov. Hirokazu Nakaima for land reclamation required for the project. 　普天間飛行場の代替施設の建設には、沖縄県の仲井真弘多知事の埋め立て許可が不可欠だ。It is of especially high importance for the government to obtain understanding from a wider range of local people to create an environment in which it would be easier for Nakaima--who has been calling for Futenma's "relocation outside our prefecture"--to change his mind in favor of relocating it within the prefecture. 地元関係者の理解を広げ、「県外移設」を主張する知事が翻意しやすい環境を整えることが大切である。Relations between Japan and China have been tense ever since the government decision in September to nationalize some of the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea. 　日中両国は、今年９月の尖閣諸島の国有化以降、険しい対立関係にある。An abnormal situation ensued, with Chinese government surveillance ships sailing in waters close to the Senkakus day after day. 中国政府船が連日、尖閣諸島周辺で示威活動を繰り返す異常な状況が続いている。===Seek mutual benefit with China　◆中国と「互恵」を再構築◆Of course, Japan should not make any concession to China on its territorial sovereignty over the Senkaku Islands. Even so, it would be seriously detrimental to the interests of both sides if the entire bilateral relationship is kept in a stalemate by this issue alone.　無論、日本は、尖閣諸島の領有権に関しては一切の譲歩をすべきではない。ただ、この問題だけで日中関係全体が停滞することは、双方にとって大きな損失だ。When Abe visited China six years ago, he succeeded in reaching an agreement with China to build a "mutually beneficial relationship based on common strategic interests" by refraining from making a definitive statement on whether he had visited or would visit Yasukuni Shrine. There must be a way to achieve a breakthrough even on diplomatic issues that are difficult to solve, if they are included as part of a wider scope of negotiations.　安倍首相は６年前の訪中で、靖国神社参拝問題に明確な結論を出さずに、「戦略的互恵関係」を目指すことで中国と一致した。解決が困難な外交問題も、より大きな交渉の一部に包含することで、打開できる道はあるはずだ。This time, for instance, the government could make the Senkaku issue a subject for continued discussion, while it seeks a mutually beneficial relationship based on common strategic interests. Through such an approach to negotiations, Japan can aim at reaching a comprehensive agreement with the Xi Jinping administration. The Japanese government must mobilize all of its wisdom to do so.　今回も、例えば、尖閣問題は継続協議にしておく一方、戦略的互恵関係を追求することで習近平指導部と包括的な合意を図るなど、知恵を絞らねばならない。For that purpose, it would be realistic for the government to shelve for the time being hard-line measures such as the "permanent stationing of government officials" on the Senkaku Islands, raised by the LDP in its list of policy measures to be studied.　そのため、自民党が政策集の検討項目に掲げた尖閣諸島での「公務員の常駐」などの強硬策は当面、棚上げにするのが現実的だ。"Assertive diplomacy," the slogan Abe raised on dealing with issues including territorial problems, is far better than "unassertive diplomacy." However, it will be meaningless if making assertions becomes an end unto itself.　安倍首相が領土問題などで掲げる「主張する外交」は、「主張しない外交」と比べれば、はるかに良いが、主張すること自体が目的化しては意味がない。What the new administration should aim at is a "diplomacy that produces achievements" through both hard and soft measures, sometimes seeking ways to solve problems in a levelheaded manner.　目指すべきは、時には静かに解決策を模索するなど、硬軟両様で「結果を出す外交」である。The government must also hasten improvements of relations with South Korea.　韓国との関係の改善も、急がなければならない。The change in administration from President Lee Myung Bak, who defiantly set foot on the Takeshima islands, which are Japanese territory, to Park Geun Hye is a good chance to improve bilateral ties. We think it is quite appropriate that Abe is thinking about sending a special envoy to Park.　竹島訪問を強行した李明博大統領から朴槿恵氏への交代は、その好機である。安倍首相が特使の派遣を検討しているのは妥当だ。To effectively face North Korea, which has been continuing its nuclear weapons development program, and China, which has been pursuing the road to military superpower status, close cooperation with South Korea, in addition to the United States, is indispensable.　核開発を進める北朝鮮や、軍事大国化する中国に効果的に向き合うには、米国に加え、韓国との緊密

第２次安倍内閣　危機突破へ政権の総力挙げよ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 28, 2012)Abe must work wholeheartedly to lead nation out of crisis第２次安倍内閣　危機突破へ政権の総力挙げよ（12月27日付・読売社説）　◆「強い経済」取り戻す知恵が要る◆Defeating deflation, continuing with post-disaster reconstruction, overhauling nuclear power policy, and rebuilding foreign policy--Japan is faced with many challenges.However, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's determination to resolve these issues was reflected in his choice of Cabinet ministers.　デフレからの脱却、震災復興、原発政策の再構築、外交立て直し――。日本が直面する難問を解決しようという意欲のうかがえる布陣だ。The second Abe Cabinet was formed Wednesday, making Abe the second politician since the end of World War II to make a comeback as prime minister, following Shigeru Yoshida (1878-1967).　第２次安倍内閣が発足した。戦後、首相の再登板は吉田茂以来２人目である。"I would like to gain the trust of the public by producing results as soon as possible," Abe said at a press conference after being elected prime minister.　安倍首相は就任後の記者会見で「一日も早く結果を出すことで信頼を得たい」と強調した。Abe's first Cabinet broke up five years ago after only a short period in office. Has he learned from the bitter experience? The spotlight is now on whether he can put his policies into practice.短命政権に終わった５年前の苦い経験を教訓に政策実現能力が問われる。Abe has said his Cabinet's reason for being is to "break through the national crisis." We hope the new prime minister can lead the nation out of the dead end it has found itself in.「危機突破内閣」の看板通り、閉塞状況を打開してもらいたい。===Use bureaucrats to full potential　◆「霞が関」を使いこなせ◆Political heavyweights including former Prime Minister Taro Aso, former Liberal Democratic Party President Sadakazu Tanigaki and former New Komeito Chief Representative Akihiro Ota gained spots in the Cabinet alongside midranking and junior lawmakers close to Abe, such as Takumi Nemoto, the new state minister for disaster reconstruction.　閣僚には、自民党の麻生元首相や谷垣禎一前総裁、公明党の太田昭宏前代表ら重鎮が並んだ。根本匠復興相ら首相に近い中堅・若手の登用も目立つ。Abe built his Cabinet around a close confidant in choosing former LDP Acting Secretary General Yoshihide Suga as chief cabinet secretary. Hiroshige Seko, another Abe ally and former chairman of the LDP Policy Board in the House of Councillors, was appointed deputy chief secretary. Isao Iijima, who served as parliamentary secretary under former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, was made a special adviser to the Cabinet.　内閣の要となる官房長官に腹心の菅義偉前幹事長代行、官房副長官には世耕弘成前参院政審会長ら側近を据えた。内閣官房参与に小泉元首相の政務秘書官を務めた飯島勲氏を起用している。His appointments in the Cabinet Secretariat show Abe's desire to strengthen the collective power of his administration based on the leadership of the Cabinet Office, as well as to enhance the office's crisis-management capabilities.　首相官邸を中心にしたチーム力と大災害時などの危機管理能力を高めるのが狙いだろう。The administrations led by the Democratic Party of Japan sailed under the slogan "politics led by politicians," but they failed to understand the true meaning of the phrase. The Abe administration must make a clear distinction between it and the DPJ administrations by making use of the bureaucracy.We ask Abe to exploit the full potential of the Kasumigaseki bureaucrats.　民主党政権の誤った「政治主導」とは一線を画し、官僚機構を十二分に使いこなして、霞が関の機能を引き出すことが大切だ。The Abe Cabinet's top priority will be reviving the economy. Cabinet ministers who are expected to play a central role in this include Aso, who is deputy prime minister, finance minister and state minister for financial services; Akira Amari, state minister for economic revitalization; and Toshimitsu Motegi, the economy, trade and industry minister.　安倍内閣の最重要課題は、日本経済の再生である。麻生太郎副総理・財務・金融相、甘利明経済再生相、茂木敏充経済産業相の３閣僚が、その中核を担う。All three are known as expert policymakers and have chaired the party's Policy Research Council. We hope they will swiftly draw up effective measures to jump-start the economy.　いずれも政調会長を経験した政策通である。実効性のある政策を迅速に打ち出してほしい。===Govt bodies to revive economy　◆司令塔を機能させたい◆The new administration needs to steadily raise the consumption tax rate to obtain enough revenue to fund social security programs. However, the administration must first compile a supplementary budget large enough to buoy the economy, which is showing signs of further decline.　社会保障財源を確保するため、消費税率を着実に引き上げていく必要がある。それには、後退色を強める景気を下支えする大規模な補正予算の編成が急務だ。Abe has said he will revive the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy, a government panel that was idled under the DPJ, and establish a new body tentatively named Japan's economic revitalization headquarters. The prime minister must steer these two organs effectively so they can play a leading role in economic policy.　経済再生に向けて、首相は経済財政諮問会議を復活させ、新たに日本経済再生本部を置く。二つの組織を経済の司令塔として、しっかり機能させねばならない。The administration of former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda pledged to achieve "zero nuclear power" in the 2030s, a policy that endangers the stability of the power supply and will accelerate the hollowing-out of the domestic industrial sector. We urge the Abe administration to annul this policy and come up with practical nuclear and energy policies.　野田政権の「２０３０年代に原発稼働ゼロ」の方針では電力の安定供給が揺らぎ、産業空洞化も加速する。これを早急に撤回し、現実的な原発・エネルギー政策を再構築すべきである。With our society graying, birthrate low and population decreasing, shrinkage of domestic demand is unavoidable for the medium term. Japan must join the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade framework to spur economic growth.　少子高齢化と人口減で中期的には国内需要の縮小が避けられない。日本の成長に弾みをつけるには環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）への参加を決断するしかない。We have high hopes that Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi will play a pivotal role in enhancing the international competitiveness of the agriculture industry, a necessary part of preparing to further open the domestic market.　林芳正農相は、一層の市場開放に備え、農業の国際競争力を強化する重要な役割を担う。It is also essential for the Abe administration to improve the nation's aging infrastructure and implement disaster-management measures. Keiji Furuya, state minister for disaster management, will be in charge of "strengthening national land"--one of the key policies of the new Cabinet.　老朽化したインフラ（社会基盤）の整備と防災対策も欠かせない。古屋圭司防災相が目玉政策の「国土強靱(きょうじん)化」を担当する。Needless to say, it should not be forgotten that the nation's finances have been seriously dependent on borrowing. The Abe Cabinet has to come up with effective methods of public investment so that we will not pass on any further heavy burdens to future generations.　無論、日本が深刻な借金財政に陥っていることも忘れてはなるまい。将来世代にこれ以上重いツケを回さないよう、効率的な公共投資を工夫することが肝要だ。To make the nation's social security system sustainable, it is inevitable to cut benefit payments. Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Norihisa Tamura will be tested on handling the issue as a social security expert.　社会保障制度を持続可能にするには給付の削減は避けられない。社会保障の専門家である田村憲久厚生労働相の手腕が問われる。The post of foreign minister has been assumed by Fumio Kishida, a former state minister for Okinawa Prefecture affairs. Progress will not be made on the issue of relocating the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station in the prefecture unless Kishida can restore trust with the prefecture, a condition that was seriously damaged by the administration of former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama from the DPJ.　外相には、岸田文雄元沖縄相が就任した。鳩山政権が著しく損なった沖縄県との信頼関係を回復しなければ、米軍普天間飛行場の移設問題は前進しない。It is reasonable for Abe to appoint Kishida as foreign minister, as he is knowledgeable on situations facing Okinawa Prefecture and is said to have a relationship of trust with Gov. Hirokazu Nakaima.　沖縄県の事情に通じ、仲井真弘多知事とも一定の信頼関係があると言われる岸田氏の起用は妥当だと言えよう。Named as defense minister was Itsunori Onodera, former parliamentary senior vice minister for foreign affairs.　防衛相には小野寺五典元外務副大臣が起用された。Over the dispute on the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, China has sent not only its vessels to intrude into Japanese waters, but also an airplane to violate the nation's airspace. Dealing with China--which has been seeking to expand its economic and military might--is the Abe Cabinet's top priority in the diplomatic and security field.　尖閣諸島を巡って中国は、領海だけでなく、領空まで侵犯した。経済、軍事両面で膨張路線をとる中国とどう向き合うかは外交・安全保障の最重要課題だ。The new prime minister has to establish a flexible, shrewd strategy by working closely with Kishida and Onodera.　首相は岸田、小野寺両氏と十分連携し、柔軟で、したたかな戦略を打ち立てる必要がある。

自公連立合意　ＴＰＰ先送りなら国益損ねる

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 27, 2012)Delay in joining TPP talks will harm national interests自公連立合意　ＴＰＰ先送りなら国益損ねる（12月26日付・読売社説）If the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito truly attach importance to the nation's best interests, they must not delay in deciding to participate in negotiations over the Trans-Pacific Partnership multilateral trade agreement.　国益を本当に重視するなら、環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）交渉に参加する決断を先送りしてはなるまい。LDP President Shinzo Abe and Komeito leader Natsuo Yamaguchi met Tuesday to sign an agreement on forming a coalition government. Their accord covers eight areas, including economic stimulus, diplomacy and security policies.　自民党の安倍総裁と公明党の山口代表が会談し、景気・経済対策、外交安保など８項目の連立政権合意書に署名した。The agreement says the coalition government "will promote free trade more than ever," but on the TPP specifically it stipulates that the new administration "will pursue the course that best serves the national interests."　合意書は、「自由貿易をこれまで以上に推進する」としたうえ、ＴＰＰについて「国益にかなう最善の道を求める」と明記した。In their campaign platforms for the Dec. 16 House of Representatives election, both the LDP and Komeito took a cautious stance on the TPP issue. The LDP said it "opposes taking part in the TPP talks if they are premised on abolishing tariffs without exception." Komeito said it "will create an environment [in the Diet] where full deliberations can take place."　先の衆院選政権公約は、自民党が「聖域なき関税撤廃が前提なら反対」、公明党も「（国会で）十分審議できる環境をつくる」と、いずれも慎重だった。The coalition agreement is a positive development if it leaves some room for participating in the talks.連立合意は、ＴＰＰ交渉参加に含みを持たせたのであれば、前向きな動きだ。Eleven countries, including the United States and Australia, are trying to reach an agreement on the TPP by the end of next year. Japan failed to decide to join the TPP talks and fell behind Canada and Mexico.　米豪など１１か国は、来年中のＴＰＰ交渉の妥結を目指している。日本は参加に踏み切れず、カナダ、メキシコにも後れをとった。Participating in the TPP talks would be an effective means to help the national economy grow through free trade, and strengthen the Japan-U.S. alliance.　自由貿易を通じた経済成長にも日米同盟の強化にも、ＴＰＰ参加は有力な手段となるはずだ。===No time for cautionSome LDP members are eager to enter the TPP negotiations, pushing for the incoming government to announce Japan's participation during a visit by the prime minister to the United States early next year. However, others remain cautious, calling for a decision to be delayed until after the House of Councillors election next summer out of fear that the party may lose the farm vote.　自民党内では、来年初めの首相訪米時の参加表明を求める積極論がある一方で、農業票の離反を恐れて来夏の参院選後に決断を先送りする慎重論も根強い。We understand the LDP wants to focus on "driving safely" at least until the upper house poll, but it must remember that inaction that could delay joining the TPP talks reduces the country's say in trade and investment rules, which could harm the national interests.　参院選前は「安全運転」に徹したい事情は理解できるが、交渉参加を遅らせる不作為は、日本の主張を貿易・投資ルールに盛り込む余地を狭め、結果的に国益を損ねることを忘れてはならない。When it comes to a trade agreement, Japan can opt for pulling out of the negotiations or eventually rejecting the accord in the Diet if it is determined to go against the national interests. Assuming only bad scenarios even before joining the talks is not constructive. We urge the incoming government to announce at an early date that Japan will join the TPP negotiations.　通商協定では、国益に反すると判断すれば、交渉過程で離脱することも、最終的に国会で承認しない選択もあり得る。交渉前から、悪いシナリオばかりを想定するのは建設的ではない。まずは早期に交渉参加を表明すべきだ。===Keep taxes simpleThe coalition agreement states that discussions will be held on introducing reduced tax rates for food and other necessities as a measure to help low-income earners when the planned consumption tax hike goes into effect. This was a concession by the LDP to Komeito.　連立合意は、消費税率引き上げ時の低所得者対策として、食料品などの軽減税率の導入を検討することを盛り込んだ。自民党が公明党に歩み寄ったものだ。Such a system is simpler and clearer, as well as easier to understand than the Japanese version of the earned income tax credit proposed by the Democratic Party of Japan-led administraion. Applying the reduced tax rates to newspapers and books would help protect intellectual culture. We urge the LDP and Komeito to discuss and overcome problems such as how to decide what items should be subject to reduced tax rates.　軽減税率は、民主党政権が主張する給付付き税額控除よりも簡明で、分かりやすい。新聞や書籍を対象とすれば、知的文化を守ることにつながる。対象品目の線引きなどの課題は、自公両党が十分協議し、克服してもらいたい。On nuclear energy policy, the coalition agreement did not adopt the "zero-nuclear policy," which was in Komeito's election pledges, but instead called for the use of nuclear power for the time being. It said the coalition government "will reduce the nation's dependence on nuclear power plants."　原発政策は、公明党が公約に掲げた「原発ゼロ」を採用せず、「原発依存度を減らす」との表現で当面の活用をうたった。We commend the agreement for its realism, which will allow nuclear reactors to be reactivated once they have been confirmed safe.安全が確認された原発の再稼働も容認し、現実的な内容と評価できる。Abe has said he would review the DPJ-led administration's policy of not approving the construction of new nuclear power plants. It is essential to minimize negative impacts on the economy and employment, while also ensuring the safety of nuclear power plants.　安倍氏は、原発新設を認めない民主党政権の方針を見直す考えも示している。経済・雇用への悪影響を最小限に抑えることと、原発の安全確保との両立が大切だ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 26, 2012)（2012年12月26日01時25分  読売新聞）

健保財政悪化　医療費負担の世代格差是正を

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 26, 2012)Intergenerational fairness in medical expenses needed健保財政悪化　医療費負担の世代格差是正を（12月25日付・読売社説）The fiscal conditions of public health insurance programs for corporate employees have worsened, resulting in an increase in insurance premiums. This is attributable to the huge expense in providing medical services for elderly people. The working generation should not have to bear an even heavier burden.　サラリーマンが加入する健康保険の財政が悪化し、保険料の上昇を招いている。高齢者医療への巨額の支出が原因だ。これ以上重い負担を現役世代に求めるのは避けるべきだ。Medical expenses for people aged 65 or older are covered by premiums and medical fees paid by elderly people themselves, as well as contributions from public coffers, health insurance societies and other entities. The contributions rose sharply with the launch of a new health care system for elderly people in 2008, causing many health insurance societies to fall into the red.　６５歳以上の高齢者の医療費は、高齢者自身の保険料や窓口負担のほか、公費と健保組合などからの拠出金で賄われている。その拠出金が、２００８年にスタートした高齢者医療制度で急増したため、多くの健保は赤字に転落した。Due to this dire financial situation, health insurance societies have no choice but to raise insurance premiums shouldered both by employers and employees. The Japan Health Insurance Association (Kyokai Kempo), to which employees of small and midsize companies belong, has raised the premium rate from 8.2 percent to 10 percent. Health insurance societies of larger companies also raised their rates from a range of between 7 percent and 8 percent to an average 8.3 percent.　財政難から、健保は労使で負担する保険料を上げざるを得ない。中小企業の従業員が加入する協会けんぽでは従来の８・２％から１０％に、大企業の健保組合も７％台から平均８・３％に上昇した。Baby boomers began turning 65 this year, and medical expenses for elderly people are expected to grow. There are fears that premium rates will continue to be raised endlessly.　団塊世代が今年から６５歳にさしかかり、高齢者の医療費は今後さらに増えるだろう。保険料率は際限なく上昇する恐れがある。===Heavier burden for elderlyThis would impose a heavy burden on corporate managements and slash the net wages of employees, with the resulting adverse effects on the nation's economy and consumption.　企業経営の重荷になる上に、賃金の手取りが減り、景気や消費に悪影響を与えかねない。To prevent this from happening, we believe it is inevitable to have senior citizens shoulder a more appropriate portion of the burden.　それを防ぐには、高齢者にも応分の負担を求めざるを得まい。Fees paid at medical institutions by patients aged 70 to 74 are set by law at 20 percent of their medical bills, but in reality remain at 10 percent. This is attributable to the government response to harsh criticism from then opposition Democratic Party of Japan Secretary General Yukio Hatoyama and others on the newly introduced health insurance system for those aged 75 or older. The opposition at that time used the new system for their own political benefits, criticizing it as "ubasuteyama," a folklore term meaning abandonment of old people in the mountains.　７０～７４歳の医療費の窓口負担は法定では２割なのに、１割に抑えられている。７５歳以上を対象にした後期高齢者医療制度の導入に際し、当時の民主党の鳩山幹事長らが「うば捨て山」と酷評し、政争に利用したことの反動である。Such criticism missed the point as the new system was designed to have the working generation bear much of the expense. However, then Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda's Cabinet, fearing a backlash from elderly people, took special measures to keep the level of the burden on those aged 70 to 74 the same as for those 75 or older.　費用の多くを現役世代が賄う制度であり、的外れの批判だったが、福田内閣は高齢者の反発を恐れ、７０～７４歳の負担を７５歳以上並みに抑える特例措置をとった。We suggest the special measures be abolished, so those aged 70 to 74 pay 20 percent of their medical expenses at medical institutions as stipulated by law. Consideration also should be given to raising the current 10 percent of the burden paid by those aged 75 or older at medical institutions.　この特例を廃し、本来の２割負担に引き上げるべきだ。１割となっている７５歳以上の窓口負担の引き上げも検討課題になろう。What is important is to curb the continuing rise in medical spending.　重要なのは、増え続ける医療費の伸びを抑えることだ。===Introduce medical data systemA number of elderly people who suffer from more than one illness visit many medical specialists, resulting in a duplication in consultations, tests and medication in many cases.　複数の病気を抱える高齢者は、多くの専門医にかかり、受診や検査、投薬の重複が目立つ。We think information on individual patients that is maintained by each medical institution should be collected under a unified management system so overlapping medical services can be eliminated. We also suggest the early introduction of a new personal identification number system, called My Number. It is indispensable to nurture general medical practitioners who can treat a variety of diseases so that duplicating medical examinations can be avoided.　各医療機関の患者情報を一元的に管理し、無駄をなくすべきだ。共通番号制度（マイナンバー）の導入を急いでもらいたい。様々な病気を診る「総合医」育成も、重複受診の解消に欠かせない。Drug costs also should be reduced by using, in principle, cheaper generic drugs.　価格の安いジェネリック医薬品（後発薬）の使用を原則とし、薬剤費の抑制を図る必要もある。The policy pledges of the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito, which are set to return to power, included such proposals as making medical treatment for young children free, which would result in further increases in medical spending. We are concerned these measures will make the current health insurance system unsustainable.　政権に復帰する自民、公明両党の公約には「小児医療費の無料化を検討」など医療費増大につながる内容が目についた。これでは制度の維持が困難にならないか。Given the graying of society, it is inevitable to increase public spending on medicine for elderly people. To secure fiscal resources, increases in the consumption tax rate must proceed as planned.　高齢者人口の増加で、高齢者医療に公費投入を増やすのは不可避だろう。財源確保のため、消費増税を着実に進めねばならない。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 25, 2012)（2012年12月25日01時17分  読売新聞）

「普天間」評価書　政権交代を機に移設を進めよ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 25, 2012)Seize the change of govt to push relocation issue「普天間」評価書　政権交代を機に移設を進めよ（12月24日付・読売社説）By taking advantage of a change of government, the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito should do their utmost to advance the stalled relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station.　自民、公明両党は政権交代を機に、停滞している米軍普天間飛行場の移設問題の前進に全力を挙げるべきである。The Defense Ministry has finished revising its report on its environmental impact assessment in preparation for relocating the station's functions to the Henoko district of Nago in the prefecture and submitted it to the Okinawa prefectural government.　防衛省が、普天間飛行場の沖縄県名護市辺野古沿岸部への移設に向けた環境影響評価書の補正作業を完了し、沖縄県に提出した。The report was revised in response to the written opinion of Okinawa Gov. Hirokazu Nakaima on the relocation to Henoko. The governor's opinion listed 579 points.　評価書の補正は仲井真弘多知事が示した計５７９件の意見に対応したものだ。While adding assessments based on the latest survey on marine life, the ministry wrote that it would take the best environmental protection measures possible.海洋生物の最新調査に基づく評価などを追加し、「可能な範囲で最大限の環境保全措置を取る」としている。It can be said that the ministry's report responded thoroughly to the huge number of requests made by the governor.　知事の膨大な注文に、丁寧に回答した内容と言えよう。Following the public announcement of its report later, the ministry will be able to apply to the prefectural government for approval to begin reclamation work for the construction of an air base to replace Futenma Air Station.　今後、評価書の公告を経て、防衛省が、普天間飛行場の代替施設建設に伴う埋め立てを沖縄県に申請することが可能になる。LDP President Shinzo Abe, who is certain to become the next prime minister, said he would like to make efforts to win the understanding of local governments and residents on the relocation plan.　自民党の安倍総裁は、辺野古移設について「地元の理解を得る努力をしたい」と述べたが、仲井真知事は「地元の理解が得られない移設は事実上不可能」と語っている。===Prospect dim for early solutionNakaima said earlier the relocation would be impossible without local understanding. As it stands, there is no prospect for the ministry to win the governor's permission to carry out the reclamation work.埋め立ての許可を得られる見通しは立っていない。Nakaima had approved relocation to the Henoko district until the gubernatorial election in November 2010. He later shifted his stance to call for "relocation outside the prefecture," but he has not publicly declared objections to the relocation plan.　ただ、知事は一昨年秋の知事選まで辺野古移設を容認していた。その後、「県外移設」要求に転じたが、今も反対は明言していない。The incoming coalition government of the LDP and Komeito must reestablish a relationship of trust with the Okinawa prefectural government, which has been greatly damaged by the maladministration of the Democratic Party of Japan, and persuade Nakaima to approve the relocation plan.　自公政権は、民主党政権の失政で破壊された沖縄県との信頼関係を修復し、移設を容認するよう知事を説得しなければならない。To relocate the air station from the densely populated area of Ginowan to a sparsely inhabited area of Henoko would greatly reduce the burden on Okinawa of hosting U.S. bases.　人口密集地から過疎地に飛行場を移すことは、県全体として基地負担を大幅に軽減する。Nago Mayor Susumu Inamine opposes the relocation plan, but some local communities around Henoko approve of the plan, which is significant.名護市長は反対だが、辺野古周辺の自治区が容認している事実は重い。If the Henoko relocation plan is realized, it will be possible to make effective use of the vacated air station, and to take various measures to promote the local economy. If the plan is abandoned, however, the currently dangerous situation in Ginowan is certain to continue for a long time.　辺野古移設が実現すれば、普天間飛行場の跡地を有効利用し、様々な地域振興が可能となる。逆に断念すれば、危険な現状が長期間、固定化されることは確実だ。===Accident impact lessThe safety of the Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft, newly deployed at Futenma Air Station, has been confirmed. But if an accident involving the new transport aircraft occurred, it is obvious the resulting damage to the coastal district of Henoko would be smaller than the impact of a similar accident in the urban area of Ginowan.　普天間飛行場に配備された新型輸送機オスプレイは安全性が確認されたが、万一、事故が起きた際、市街地よりも辺野古沿岸部の方が被害が小さいのは明らかだ。Solving the issue, which has been pending since the 1996 Japan-U.S. accord on the relocation, would greatly contribute to the reinforcement of the Japan-U.S. alliance, the importance of which is growing against the backdrop of China's military buildup and other developments.　１９９６年の日米合意以来の懸案を解決することは、中国の軍備増強などで重要性を増す日米同盟の強化にも大いに役立つ。We hope Nakaima will comprehensively consider these factors.　仲井真知事は、こうした要素を総合的に勘案してもらいたい。The important thing is for the central government to create an atmosphere in which the governor will find it easier to permit the reclamation work.　重要なのは、新政権が、埋め立てを知事が許可しやすい環境を整えることだ。First of all, the LDP and Komeito need to persuade their prefectural organizations and their locally elected Diet members calling for "relocating the facility outside the prefecture" to change their stance, thus increasing local understanding on the Henoko relocation.まず、「県外移設」を唱える自公両党の県組織や地元選出国会議員を説得し、辺野古移設への理解を広げることだ。It is also vital to deal with the problem of local assembly members of Nago who are split over the relocation issue, and to make efforts to rebuild the cooperative relationship with Okinawa Prefecture, including expanded measures to promote the local economy.　反対・容認に割れる名護市議などの地元対策や、沖縄振興策の拡充を含めた沖縄県との協調関係の再構築も欠かせない。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 24, 2012)（2012年12月24日01時20分  読売新聞）

米財政の崖　大統領と議会は回避へ合意を

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 24, 2012)Obama, U.S. Congress must strike deal to avoid 'fiscal cliff'米財政の崖　大統領と議会は回避へ合意を（12月23日付・読売社説）Will the United States be able to avoid tumbling off the so-called fiscal cliff, which could lead to a drastic fiscal contraction and economic slowdown? We urge both President Barack Obama and Congress to compromise to reach an agreement as soon as possible.　急激な財政緊縮で米国経済が失速する「財政の崖」を回避できるか。オバマ大統領と議会は互いに譲歩し、早期合意を図ってもらいたい。In the last round of negotiations, the two sides abandoned their effort to resolve the problem before Christmas, which had been set as the deadline for a settlement. They plan to resume talks on Wednesday at the earliest.　大詰めの協議は、交渉期限としていたクリスマス休暇前の決着を断念した。２６日以降に協議を再開する予定だ。The negotiations are expected to continue until the end of the year, but it remains to be seen if the two sides will be able to strike a deal by then. There are pessimistic predictions that the negotiations will go into next year, which we consider a terrible development.　再協議は年末ギリギリまで行われる見通しだが、年内妥結は微妙で、来年に先送りされるという悲観的な観測も出ている。憂慮すべき展開になってきた。The fiscal cliff refers to the expiration of tax cuts introduced during former President George W. Bush's administration and mandatory spending cuts that will kick in Jan. 1.　「財政の崖」は、ブッシュ前大統領が導入した所得税などの大型減税の失効と歳出の強制削減が来年にかけて重なる事態を言う。Failure to reach an agreement this year could result in a fiscal contraction of up to 503 billion dollars (about 42 trillion yen) a year, pushing down real gross domestic product growth by about 3 percent.　財政緊縮額は最大で年間５０３０億ドル（約４２兆円）に達し、米国の実質国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）の伸び率を約３％も押し下げる。In that event, the U.S. economy would almost certainly enter a recession, which would deal a serious blow to Japan and the rest of the global economy. It is natural there are growing concerns on the New York Stock Exchange and elsewhere.　そうなれば、米国の景気後退入りが避けられず、日本など世界経済にも深刻な打撃を与えよう。ニューヨーク株式市場などが警戒を強めているのは当然だ。===Taxing the wealthyThe biggest sticking point in the talks are tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans.　協議の最大の焦点は、富裕層向け減税の扱いである。Among the tax cuts introduced by Bush, Obama has consistently called for ending tax cuts for wealthy households earning more than 250,000 dollars (about 21 million yen) during and after the presidential campaign. This is aimed at focusing tax cuts on the middle-class and reducing fiscal deficits.　大統領は大統領選中から一貫して「ブッシュ減税」のうち、年収２５万ドル（約２１００万円）超の富裕層向け減税の打ち切りを主張してきた。減税を中間層などに絞り、財政赤字縮小を図る狙いだ。The Republicans, however, oppose tax hikes on the wealthy, calling instead for extending across-the-board tax cuts.　これに対し、富裕層増税に反対する共和党は、全所得層の減税延長を求めて対立してきた。Obama recently offered a compromise by proposing higher tax rates for Americans making more than 400,000 dollars, which is seen as a positive sign. The proposal is commendable as it shows his willingness to bring the stalled negotiations to a close.　大統領が最近になってようやく、増税対象とする富裕層を４０万ドル超に引き上げる妥協案を示したのは良いサインだ。協議打開を目指す姿勢と評価できる。===GOP softens stanceRepublicans have also softened their stance, putting forward a plan to allow taxes to rise only on households making more than 1 million dollars a year. However, some party members still strongly oppose raising taxes for any high-income earners.　共和党も軟化し、１００万ドル超の富裕層については増税を容認する案を提示したが、それでも党内には依然、富裕層増税に反対する強硬派がいる。Although their positions are still wide apart, we hope both sides will compromise.　主張の隔たりはまだあるが、歩み寄りを期待したい。The president and Republicans are also at odds over the scale of spending cuts in social security and other fields. In summer last year, the U.S. government managed to raise the federal debt limit. As the federal debt is likely to reach that limit as early as the beginning of next year, this problem has become another focus of attention.　大統領と共和党の協議は、社会保障などの歳出削減規模を巡っても対立している。昨夏、連邦債務上限の引き上げが実現したが、年明けにも再び債務上限に達する問題への対応策も論点である。Some people are calling on the president and Congress to reach a "small deal," under which the two parties will initially compromise on certain points. This proposal is worth considering to avert the worst.　ひとまず妥協できる点で決着する「小さな合意」を求める声が一部にある。最悪の事態を避ける次善策として検討に値する。The U.S. fiscal deficit has topped 1 trillion dollars for four consecutive years, the nation's unemployment hovers at a high level and economic recovery has been delayed.　米国の財政赤字は４年連続で１兆ドル台に乗り、失業率が高止まりして景気回復は遅れている。In January, Obama will start serving his second term, and a newly elected Congress will take office. But the country still must confront the difficult challenges of realizing thorough fiscal reconstruction and economic growth at the same time.　来年１月にオバマ大統領の２期目がスタートし、新議会も始まる。抜本的な財政再建と経済成長の両立は重い課題となるだろう。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 23, 2012)（2012年12月23日01時31分  読売新聞）

クリスマスプレゼント

一昨年の１２月２５日、クリスマスプレゼントとしてスラチャイ編集の辞書をプレゼントしました。ラオ日辞書は、一週間以上睡眠を犠牲にしてエクセルで打ち込んだ力作です＾＾。↓http://blog.goo.ne.jp/srachai/e/2819dae62dddf615ab6d5cb11f2c2602昨年の１２月２２日、クリスマスプレゼントとして「クリスマスプレゼント　オンラインカジノゲーム」をプレゼントしました。↓http://kiyoshimatforklog.cocolog-nifty.com/blog/2012/04/ocn-cafe-copy-6.html今年も昨年のクリスマスプレゼントを踏襲いたします＾＾。オンラインカジノゲームです。今年は、初めて覚えたバカラを掲載いたします。今回はバカラですが、ルーレット、スロットマシン、ブラックジャックは昨年のプレゼントで今年も遊べます。いずれも完全無料で心ゆくまで楽しめますが、実際にお金をかけるオンラインカジノと同じようなサイトのつくりになっています。●　完全無料のミニバカラゲームはこちらです。↓http://sdin.jp/browser/casino/minibaccarat/ で、こちらが本物のオンラインカジノです。（ボーナス付きですが、勝つのは至難の業！）日本のパチンコで遊ぶより多少ましな程度なのです。

原発と活断層　規制委は説明責任を果たせ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 23, 2012)Nuclear Regulation Authority too hasty in evaluating faults?原発と活断層　規制委は説明責任を果たせ（12月22日付・読売社説）A Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) expert team has announced its view that crush zones on the premises of the Higashidori nuclear power plant in Aomori Prefecture are active faults that could cause earthquakes.　東北電力東通原子力発電所（青森県東通村）敷地内の断層（破砕帯）について、原子力規制委員会の専門家会合が、「地震を起こす活断層」との見解をまとめた。In light of this view, restarting the plant's reactor early now appears to be difficult. 　東通原発を早期に再稼働させることは難しくなったと言える。This is a serious matter for Tohoku Electric Power Co., the operator of the nuclear power plant, as it had put its hopes on the restart as the key to recovering its power supply capacity after suffering extensive damage to its facilities from the Great East Japan Earthquake. 　東日本大震災で設備を多数損傷した東北電は、東通原発の再稼働を供給力回復の切り札と期待していただけに、深刻な事態だ。The faults in question extend along the plant site, coming as close to the reactor as 200 meters. Tohoku Electric had asserted they were formed after layers slipped due to changes in underground water levels. However, the five-member team of experts led by Kunihiko Shimazaki, acting chairman of the NRA, unanimously dismissed the utility's assertion.　問題とされる断層は、原子炉の２００メートルほど脇を通っている。東北電は、「地下水による地盤のずれ」と説明してきた。だが、規制委の島崎邦彦委員長代理を座長とする専門家会合の５人全員が、東北電の解釈を否定した。If the faults move in the way the team has predicted, the reactor's safety equipment would inevitably be undermined. 　専門家会合の見解通りに、この断層が動けば、原子炉の安全設備への影響は避けられない。Nothing is more important than securing the safety of the reactor. Tohoku Electric likely will be urged to thoroughly conduct research and risk assessments as well as to drastically review the seismic resistance of the reactor and other nuclear facilities. Such an overhaul could force the company to carry out reinforcement work, depending on the results of further surveys. 　安全の確保は何より大切だ。今後、東北電は、断層の徹底的な調査と評価、原子炉など施設の耐震性の抜本的な見直しを迫られるだろう。結果次第で、補強工事を求められる可能性もある。===Stable power supply also neededIn the meantime, Tohoku Electric needs to make every effort to secure a stable power supply so as not to disrupt people's daily lives and business activities. 　国民生活や企業活動に支障を来さないよう、東北電は安定電源の確保に万全を期す必要がある。On Dec. 10, the expert team reached an agreement that a crush zone directly under a reactor of the Tsuruga nuclear power plant in Fukui Prefecture, operated by Japan Atomic Power Co., is highly likely to be an active fault. In such a case, the reactor could be ordered to be decommissioned, but no such active fault has been found directly under the reactor at the Higashidori plant.　規制委の専門家会合は１０日にも、日本原子力発電敦賀原発について「原子炉直下に活断層がある」と判定した。一方、東通原発では、廃炉の可能性がある原子炉直下の活断層は確認されていない。Dissatisfied with the expert team's view, Tohoku Electric reportedly intends to make counterarguments. 　東北電は、専門家会合の見解を不満とし、反論する方針だ。In addition to faults on the premises of the Higashidori plant, the team has also warned that a huge peripheral fault, more than 80 kilometers long in the nearby seabed, could be active. 　専門家会合は、敷地内の断層に加え、東通原発の目前の海底にも全長８０キロ・メートル以上の巨大活断層がある可能性を指摘した。If this fault moves, the whole Shimokita Peninsula where the plant is located could be affected. Discussions are likely to be sparked also over the quake resistance of Japan Nuclear Fuel Ltd.'s Rokkasho plant for reprocessing spent nuclear fuel. 　これが動けば、東通原発がある下北半島全体に影響が及ぶ。日本原燃の使用済み核燃料再処理工場などの耐震性も議論になろう。===Seismology not perfectMeanwhile, we must not forget that seismology is an immature field. Due consideration is needed over whether the NRA should launch full-fledged research. 　地震学は未熟な学問であることを忘れてはならない。今後、規制委として調査すべきかどうか、慎重な検討が必要である。Risk assessments of faults in and near nuclear power plants will affect respective regional economies and local residents' lives. People have indeed been increasingly vocal in expressing such concerns.　各原発の断層評価は、立地地域の経済や住民生活も左右する。不安の声は拡大している。The regulatory body has the responsibility to explain how its expert team conducted research and evaluated findings in detail, but its efforts have been far from satisfactory in this regard.　調査、評価の内容について、規制委は丁寧に説明する責任があるが、その取り組みは不十分だ。The NRA has yet to compile the team's risk assessments in writing. Only information materials full of jargon and video footage showing experts' discussions have been made public.　規制委は、これまでの評価結果を文書にまとめていない。公開されているのは、専門用語による資料や議論の映像だけだ。Furthermore, it can be said that the NRA failed to spend enough time exchanging opinions with the utilities concerned and appeared to make assertions one-sidedly.　しかも、当事者である電力会社との意見交換に十分な時間を割かず、一方的な議論に終始した。The authority is guaranteed its independence. However, it cannot win public trust with a self-righteous approach.　規制委は、組織の独立性が保証されている。しかし、独善的な運営では信頼を得られない。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 22, 2012)（2012年12月22日01時04分  読売新聞）

物価目標検討　政府・日銀はデフレ脱却急げ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 22, 2012)Govt, BOJ must move quickly to defeat deflation物価目標検討　政府・日銀はデフレ脱却急げ（12月21日付・読売社説）The inauguration of a Liberal Democratic Party-led government next week will mark the first step for the government and the Bank of Japan to close ranks and work toward leading Japan out of deflation.　政権交代を機に、政府と日銀がデフレからの脱却に向けて連携を強める第一歩である。The central bank decided Thursday to look into the possibility of introducing an inflation target.　日銀が２０日、「物価目標」の導入を検討する方針を打ち出した。At a news conference the same day, Gov. Masaaki Shirakawa said he would make a final decision on the matter in January. He said the central bank had decided to study the matter in response to a request from LDP President Shinzo Abe.　日銀の白川方明総裁は記者会見で、「自民党の安倍総裁から物価目標について要請された。これを踏まえて検討することにした」と述べ、１月に結論を出す考えを明らかにした。Currently, the central bank is aiming for a 1 percent inflation target but this goal is not set in stone.　日銀は当面１％の消費者物価上昇率を目指しているが、「目途(めど)」というあいまいな位置づけだ。Abe had called for the government and the central bank to reach an accord on a 2 percent inflation target and implement drastic monetary easing policies.　安倍総裁は日銀に２％の物価目標の設定や大胆な金融緩和、政府と日銀の政策協定を求めていた。The central bank should be praised for responding promptly and deciding to study setting an inflation target.日銀が迅速に対応し、目標設定に踏み出すことは評価できる。The bank has also decided on an additional monetary easing package worth 10 trillion yen. As a result, the bank's fund to purchase government bonds and other assets will exceed 100 trillion yen.　日銀は今回、１０兆円の追加金融緩和策も決めた。日銀が国債などを買い入れる「基金」の規模は１００兆円を超える。The slowdown of foreign economies and worsening of relations with China have reduced exports and production, making domestic business more sluggish.　海外経済の減速と、日中関係の悪化で輸出や生産が低迷し、景気は後退色を強めている。===Prompt decision praiseworthyThe Bank of Japan was correct in promptly deciding on additional monetary easing measures to follow up those decided in September and October.　日銀が、９月と１０月の金融緩和から間を置かず追加策を講じたのは妥当な判断と言えよう。The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average has surged back to the 10,000 yen level due to high expectations for the incoming administration led by Abe, who is aggressive about pump-priming measures.　景気対策に前向きな安倍新政権への期待から、東京市場の平均株価が１万円を回復している。Of course, monetary policy alone is not enough to defeat deflation and achieve an economic recovery. The key is for the government and the central bank to conclude pragmatic policy accords.　もちろん、金融政策だけではデフレ脱却や景気回復は望めない。肝心なのは、政府と日銀が実効性のある政策協定を結ぶことだ。We hope they will coordinate their efforts expeditiously after the launch of the new government.　新政権の発足後、調整を急いでもらいたい。It will be necessary to restore a process that allows funds made available as a result of monetary easing to be used as loans for plant and equipment investments to expand both corporate profits and jobs.　金融緩和で供給された資金が貸し出しを通じて設備投資に使われ、利益と雇用の拡大をもたらす流れを回復する必要がある。The government is primarily responsible for undertaking this task. First and foremost, it will be essential to resolve as soon as possible the shortage in demand, which is one cause of deflation.　これは主に政府の役割だろう。まずはデフレの原因である「需要不足」の解消が急がれる。===Big stimulus package vitalImmediate results can be expected from the implementation of such urgent public works projects as repairs to aging infrastructure and improvement of antidisaster capabilities. It is indispensable to carry out a large-scale economic stimulus package after compiling a supplementary budget.　老朽化した社会インフラの改修や防災など、緊急性の高い公共事業は即効性がある。補正予算による大型経済対策が不可欠だ。Issuing a certain amount of additional government bonds will be unavoidable to secure fiscal resources but this should be done without causing the fiscal balance to deteriorate further.　財源確保のため一定の国債増発はやむを得ないが、財政悪化に拍車をかけてはならない。In formulating the budget for fiscal 2013 starting in April, it will be imperative to significantly cut back on spending programs initiated under the handout policies of the Democratic Party of Japan-led administration.　来年度予算の編成では、民主党のバラマキ政策の予算を、大胆に削ることが重要となる。It also will be essential to expand measures to assist corporate activities, including tax breaks for investment in growth fields, lowering the corporate tax and reviewing regulations detrimental to start-up businesses.　成長分野の投資減税や法人税率引き下げ、新規事業を阻害する規制の見直しなど、企業活動を支援する政策の充実が求められる。To keep the Bank of Japan on the defensive, the LDP and others have threatened to revise the Bank of Japan Law and hints have been dropped in connection with the bank's next governor.　自民党などには、日銀法改正や次期日銀総裁人事をちらつかせ、日銀を牽制(けんせい)する向きもある。However, if the bank's independence is undermined, it may lower confidence in Japan's monetary system and government bonds and spread disarray throughout the financial markets. Excessive political pressure must be avoided.　中央銀行の独立性が揺らげば、日本の通貨制度や国債の信認が低下し、市場が混乱しかねない。過剰な政治圧力は避けるべきだ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 21, 2012)（2012年12月21日01時29分  読売新聞）

google page rank for rakuten blog (real time)

google page rank for rakuten blogこの楽天ブログのグーグルページランクをリアルタイムで表示しています。↓

女性大統領誕生　未来見据えた日韓関係構築を

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 22, 2012)S. Korea's new president must seek future-oriented ties with Japan女性大統領誕生　未来見据えた日韓関係構築を（12月21日付・読売社説）South Koreans have chosen their country's first female president. We hope she will break through new frontiers and exercise leadership in such matters as revitalization of the country's economy and rebuilding relations with Japan.　韓国初の女性大統領の誕生である。経済の再生や、日韓関係の再構築などで指導力を発揮して、新しい時代を切り開いてもらいたい。Park Geun Hye of the ruling Saenuri Party was elected in a closely fought presidential election, defeating rival candidate Moon Jae In of the Democratic United Party, the largest opposition party.　韓国大統領選で、与党セヌリ党の朴槿恵氏が最大野党・民主統合党の文在寅氏との接戦を制し、当選した。The key issues during the election campaign were economic problems, including measures to reduce the widening income gap and unemployment.　選挙戦の最大の争点は、格差是正や雇用など経済問題だった。While Moon emphasized tighter control over family-run conglomerates, Park placed weight on economic growth and securing employment for young people.　財閥への規制強化に力点を置く文氏に対し、朴氏は、経済成長の維持と、若者などの雇用確保を重視した。We can safely conclude South Korean voters chose economic growth and more employment, rather than restricting the activities of major corporations, which are the locomotive of the country's exports.有権者は、輸出を担う大企業の締め付けより、成長と雇用拡大を望んだと言える。===Small business measures keySouth Korea is now among the top 10 countries in the world in terms of trade volume, due partly to its efforts to promote free trade agreements with the United States, the European Union and others. However, this has not resulted in an increase of jobs. Reinforcing and nurturing small and midsize enterprises, which are crucial to employment, are important issues.　韓国は、米欧などとの自由貿易協定（ＦＴＡ）推進を軸に貿易額で世界トップ１０入りしたが、それが雇用増にはつながっていない。雇用の受け皿となる中小企業の強化や育成が重要な課題だ。There were also great differences in the approaches of the two candidates to North Korea.　対北朝鮮政策でも、両候補の違いは目立った。Moon pledged to unconditionally restart large-scale food and fertilizer assistance programs to the North and have summit talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, first secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, next year. His policy is a return to the "sunshine policy" pursued by left-wing administrations.　文氏は、北朝鮮への食料、肥料などの大規模支援を、無条件で再開し、金正恩・朝鮮労働党第１書記との首脳会談を来年中に行うと公約した。左派政権時代の太陽政策に回帰しようとするものだ。In contrast, conservative Park also showed a willingness to reopen dialogue with North Korea, but said full-fledged assistance programs must come after a relationship of trust had been built up between the two countries. Her policy follows the footsteps of the current administration, which has demanded that North Korea take concrete actions to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula.　これに対し、保守派の朴氏は、南北対話再開に前向きな姿勢は見せたが、本格的な支援は信頼関係構築が前提、とした。北朝鮮に非核化への具体的な取り組みを求める現行路線を踏襲している。North Korea is still pursuing its nuclear and missile development programs, as was seen in the recent launch of a long-range ballistic missile despite calls by the international community to cancel it.　北朝鮮は、長距離弾道ミサイル発射を強行するなど、依然、核・ミサイル開発を進めている。The victory of Park, who has vowed to take a stern attitude toward North Korea through cooperation among Japan, South Korea and the United States, is a welcome development for Japan.北朝鮮に日米韓の連携強化で厳しく臨もうとする朴氏の当選は、日本にとっても歓迎できるものだ。===Repair bilateral tiesPark is the daughter of former President Park Chung Hee, who braved strong opposition within the country to normalize relations with Japan in 1965 and led the country on a rapid economic growth path, dubbed the "Miracle of the Hanggang river." During the election campaign, Park gave prominence to relations with Japan, including the conclusion of an economic partnership agreement.　朴氏は、１９６５年に国内の強い反対を押し切って日韓国交正常化を断行し、韓国を「漢江の奇跡」と呼ばれる高度経済成長路線に導いた朴正煕大統領の娘である。選挙戦では、経済連携協定（ＥＰＡ）の推進など、日本との関係を重視していく立場を打ち出した。Many issues are common to both Japan and South Korea, such as low birthrates and aging populations as well the handling of North Korea and China, which is expanding economically and militarily.　少子高齢化対策、北朝鮮や膨張する中国への対応など、日韓共通の課題は多い。Liberal Democratic Party President Shinzo Abe congratulated Park on her victory. "I hope to deepen bilateral relations further from a broad perspective by maintaining close contacts," said Abe, whose administration will be launched next week.　自民党の安倍総裁は「緊密に意思疎通を行うことで、大局的な観点から日韓両国の関係をさらに深化させていきたい」と朴氏当選を祝うコメントを発表した。日本でも来週、安倍政権が発足する。We hope the two incoming leaders will initially work toward repairing the Japan-South Korean relationship, which deteriorated to the worst-ever level when President Lee Myung Bak visited the Takeshima islands and demanded for an "apology by the Emperor" to victims of Japan's past colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula.　日韓の両首脳にはまず、李明博大統領の竹島訪問と「天皇の謝罪」要求発言で最悪になった日韓関係の修復を図ってもらいたい。Of course, there is little ground for optimism, but they need to make efforts to avoid issues of history from negatively impacting on the two nations any further.　楽観は禁物だが、歴史問題がこれ以上、両国に否定的な影響を与えぬよう双方の努力が必要だ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 21, 2012)（2012年12月21日01時29分  読売新聞）

自公連立協議　現実的な原発政策を掲げよ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 20, 2012)LDP, Komeito need to present realistic nuclear power policy自公連立協議　現実的な原発政策を掲げよ（12月19日付・読売社説）If the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito are to form a coalition government, it is a matter of course that they will have to make adjustments on important policies as much as possible to prevent discord within the cabinet.　連立政権を組む以上、閣内不一致に陥らないように、重要政策について極力すり合わせておくのは、当然である。LDP President Shinzo Abe and Komeito leader Natsuo Yamaguchi met Tuesday to launch a series of policy consultations ahead of the inauguration of the second Abe Cabinet next week.　自民党の安倍総裁と公明党の山口代表が会談し、第２次安倍内閣の発足に向けた政策協議を開始した。To begin with, they agreed to compile a large supplementary budget for fiscal 2012 to serve as temporary economic stimulus.当面の経済対策として、大型の今年度補正予算を編成する方針で一致した。LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Akira Amari and Komeito Policy Research Council Chairman Keiichi Ishii are expected to hammer out the details for the budget ahead of an official accord by the end of the week.　詳細は、自民・甘利、公明・石井の両党政調会長が協議し、週内の合意を目指すという。===Economy a proper priorityThe country desperately needs to be lifted out of deflation. The incoming administration is right in its decision to give top priority to economic reconstruction as a symbol of its efforts to move politics forward.　デフレ脱却は急務である。新政権が、政治を前に動かす「象徴」として、景気の立て直しを最優先する判断は間違っていない。Komeito supports a supplementary budget to the tune of about 10 trillion yen, while the LDP has yet to be specific.　補正予算の規模について、公明党は１０兆円規模を主張するが、自民党は規模を明示していない。Since at least part of any supplementary budget has to rely on the issuance of additional government bonds, it is important to avoid simple handout policies and choose spending that will have a highly positive economic effect.　財源の一部を国債の追加発行に頼らざるを得ないこともあり、バラマキを避け、経済効果の高い歳出項目を選ぶことが大切だ。Adjustments to energy policy will be another focus of attention during the policy talks between the two parties. While the LDP pledged to "establish the best possible combination of power generation sources within 10 years," Komeito advocates "aiming to reduce the number of nuclear power plants to zero as soon as possible."　政策協議ではエネルギー政策の調整が焦点となる。自民党が「１０年以内に最適な電源構成を確立する」方針を掲げるのに対し、公明党は「可能な限り速やかに原発ゼロを目指す」と唱えている。However, Komeito also acknowledges the need to give consideration to possible negative effects on the economy and employment, as well as to the securing of nuclear power engineers.　ただ、公明党も、経済・雇用への影響や技術者の確保に配慮する必要性は認めている。Imports of fuel for the nation's thermal power plants, which are being used as alternative power sources to nuclear power plants, have continued to surge, with 3 trillion yen of national wealth currently flowing overseas per year.　今も原発の代替電源である火力発電の燃料輸入が急増し、年３兆円の国富が海外に流出している。Zero nuclear power would accelerate the hollowing-out of the domestic industrial sector, which we see as contradicting the economic measures Komeito places importance on.「原発ゼロ」では、産業の空洞化が加速し、公明党が重視する経済対策にも逆行するだろう。===Reactivation a mustWe urge both the LDP and Komeito to craft a realistic policy that includes reactivating the nation's nuclear reactors once they are confirmed safe and rejecting the idea of zero nuclear power in the mid- and long term.　安全性が確認された原発は再稼働し、中長期的にも「原発ゼロ」は避けるという現実的な政策を自公両党はまとめてもらいたい。The LDP and Komeito also differ over amending the Constitution, but the two parties will unlikely go deeply into the issue during the policy talks this time around, due to its "low priority." This is an inevitable judgment given the limited amount of time before the new administration takes power.　自公両党間では、憲法改正問題で主張の隔たりがあるが、今回の政策協議では「優先度が高くない」として深入りしない方向だ。新政権発足まで時間が限られている以上、やむを得ない判断だろう。The LDP insists the government's interpretation of the Constitution should be revised so the country can exercise its right to collective self-defense. This would deepen the Japan-U.S. alliance, and is something we believe should be realized.　自民党は、集団的自衛権を行使できるように政府の憲法解釈の変更を主張している。日米同盟を深化するうえで、重要な意義を持つ。本来は、ぜひ実現したい。Komeito has consistently opposed such a move. However, Japan would only be required to exercise its right to collective self-defense in a limited number of situations, such as if a U.S. military vessel was attacked by a foreign country on the high seas or if a ballistic missile headed for the United States passed over Japan.　公明党は反対の立場を崩していないが、実際に日本が集団的自衛権の行使を求められるのは、公海上で米軍艦船が他国に攻撃される場合や、日本上空を通過する弾道ミサイルで米国が攻撃される場合など、限定されている。When should exercising the right to collective self-defense be allowed, and how should it be restricted? We believe it is possible for the two parties to find common ground if they engage in deep, reality-based discussions. We hope they, as ruling parties, will continue to discuss this matter after the new administration is launched.　どのケースで行使を可能にし、どんな歯止めをかけるのか。現実に即して議論を深めれば、両党の接点を見つけることは不可能ではあるまい。新政権の発足後も、与党内で論議を続けてほしい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 19, 2012)（2012年12月19日01時12分  読売新聞）

中国機領空侵犯　自衛隊への挑発が過ぎないか

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 19, 2012)China's provocative acts are beyond the pale中国機領空侵犯　自衛隊への挑発が過ぎないか（12月18日付・読売社説）How should Japan deal with a China that has repeatedly engaged in brazen provocations both on the sea and in the air near the Senkaku Islands? This is one of the most serious tasks facing the administration of incoming Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.　海だけでなく、空からも尖閣諸島周辺で示威活動を繰り返す中国とどう向き合うか。　「安倍政権」にとって、最も重い課題の一つである。A propeller-driven airplane belonging to China's State Oceanic Administration on Thursday intruded into Japanese airspace near the Senkaku Islands and flew near the islands for about half an hour. It marks the first time a Chinese aircraft has ever intruded into Japanese airspace.　中国国家海洋局に所属するプロペラ航空機が１３日、日本の領空に侵入し、尖閣諸島周辺の上空を約３０分間飛行した。中国機による領空侵犯は初めてだ。The Chinese government tried to explain the act away by calling it "a three-dimensional patrol both on the water and in the air." But it was probably an intentionally provocative act conducted amid Japan's election campaign for the House of Representatives.　中国政府は「海と空からの立体パトロール」と強弁しているが、衆院選の最中を狙った意図的な挑発行為だろう。Thursday marked the 75th anniversary of the Nanjing Incident perpetrated by the Imperial Japanese Army. The air intrusion may also have been intended to respond to anti-Japan sentiments in China.１３日は旧日本軍による南京事件７５年に当たっていた。国内の反日感情に呼応する目的もあったのかもしれない。The government lodged a strong protest with China. Washington, acting in concert with Tokyo, also conveyed its concern. When the gravity of the issue is taken into consideration, these are appropriate responses. The Japanese government, in cooperation with other countries, must call on China to exercise self-restraint.　政府は中国に厳重抗議した。米国も日本に同調し、懸念を伝えた。問題の重大性を踏まえれば当然の対応だ。政府は各国と連携し、中国に自制を求めねばならない。===A higher level of hazardThe potential danger posed by an intrusive act differs greatly between those in the air and on the water.　空と海とは、その危険度が全く異なる。When a Chinese government vessel intrudes into Japanese waters, the Japan Coast Guard takes action, while the Maritime Self-Defense Force does not come to the fore.領海侵入した中国政府船には海上保安庁が対応し、海上自衛隊が前面に出ることはない。When there is an intrusion into the nation's airspace, however, the Air Self-Defense Force scrambles fighters to patrol and issue warnings.　これに対し、領空侵犯が起きた場合は、航空自衛隊の戦闘機が緊急発進（スクランブル）し、監視や警告を行うことになる。International law does not allow aircraft to fly into the territorial airspace of a foreign country without permission. A country thus intruded upon can take measures to exclude the intruding airplane to protect its sovereignty.　国際法は、航空機が無許可で外国の領空を飛行することを認めていない。各国とも、主権侵害として、排除措置を取れる。The ASDF scrambled 156 times against seemingly imminent intrusions by Chinese airplanes into Japanese airspace in fiscal 2011, a record high in the past decade. In the first half of this fiscal year alone, the ASDF scrambled 69 times.　空自は昨年度、領空侵犯の恐れがある中国機に対し、１５６回のスクランブルを実施した。この１０年間で最も多かった。今年度前半も６９回に達している。Should any unexpected incident occur between an ASDF aircraft and an intruding Chinese airplane, it could escalate, in a worst-case scenario, into a military conflict between the two countries.　仮に、領空侵犯した中国機との間で不測の事故が起きれば、最悪の場合、日中間の軍事的対立に発展しかねない。===A troubling radar blind spotIn response to Thursday's intrusion into Japanese airspace, the ASDF scrambled fighter jets but failed to arrive at the spot promptly enough and to fully track the intrusion of the Chinese airplane. As there is no radar site near the Senkaku Islands, the ASDF failed to detect the Chinese aircraft, which was believed to have flown low over the waters close to the islands, early enough.　今回の領空侵犯に対し、空自機がスクランブルしたものの、現場への到着が遅れ、中国機の飛行を確認することに失敗した。尖閣諸島近くにレーダーサイトがなく、低空飛行で接近したと見られる中国機に気づかなかった。It is a matter of urgency to reinforce the SDF's warning and patrol system against Chinese aircraft. The ASDF needs to fill in this blind spot in its radar network by deploying more E-2C early-warning aircraft and airborne warning and control system (AWACS) planes to the Nansei Islands.　中国機に対する自衛隊の警戒監視体制の強化は急務だ。空自は、早期警戒機Ｅ２Ｃや空中警戒管制機（ＡＷＡＣＳ）を南西諸島に派遣する機会を増やし、レーダー網の死角を埋める必要がある。Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi has released a paper on China's foreign policy, in which he emphasized that China "will fight with Japan resolutely" against the Japanese government's nationalization of part of the Senkaku Islands.　中国の楊潔チ外相は外交政策に関する論文を発表し、日本による尖閣諸島国有化に対し「断固、日本と闘争を行う」と強調した。A Chinese official in charge of diplomatic authorities, who are supposed to function as a window for communication and negotiation with other countries, has taken a hard-line stance. This only hinders a level-headed bilateral dialogue, making it difficult to bring the issue under control.　協議の窓口となるべき外交当局の責任者が強硬姿勢を取ることが、冷静な２国間対話を妨げ、事態の沈静化を困難にしている。China must become aware that its self-centered behavior is certainly damaging its international reputation.　中国は、身勝手な自己主張が自国の国際的評価を確実に損なっていることを自覚すべきだ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 18, 2012)（2012年12月18日01時22分  読売新聞）

アナリスで究極のアフィリエイトを！　効果は絶大、費用は最小

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自民党政権復帰　謙虚に実績積み信頼取り戻せ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 18, 2012)LDP must regain public's trust with achievements自民党政権復帰　謙虚に実績積み信頼取り戻せ（12月17日付・読売社説）　◆民主政権迷走への厳しい懲罰だ◆Voters handed down a stern judgment on the Democratic Party of Japan-led government. They obviously opted for a stable administration from which realistic policies can be expected.　有権者は、民主党政権に極めて厳しい審判を下した。現実路線で安定を望める政権を選択したと言える。The Liberal Democratic Party and its likely coalition partner New Komeito together garnered more than 320 seats in the 46th House of Representatives election Sunday to secure a return to power. It was an overwhelming victory but was not met with an air of excitement.　第４６回衆院選は、自民党と公明党で３２０を超える議席を獲得し、政権復帰を決めた。熱気なき圧勝である。The DPJ, on the other hand, suffered a historic, crushing setback after losing a huge number of seats. Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda announced Sunday night he would resign as party president.　民主党は、議席を激減させ、歴史的敗北を喫した。野田首相は、党代表の辞任を表明した。LDP President Shinzo Abe, who is poised to assume the post of prime minister for the second time, said the election results "do not show the LDP fully regained the people's confidence." The party should not be complacent. It will be essential for it to resolve a host of challenges, including economic revitalization and reconstruction from last year's disaster, so it can regain public confidence.　２度目の首相就任が確実となった安倍総裁は「自民党に完全に信頼が戻ったということではない」と述べた。自民党は、おごってはならない。経済再生や復興など山積する課題を着実に解決し、信頼を取り戻すことが肝要だ。===Ishin no Kai secures foothold　◆維新も国政に影響力◆One factor behind the LDP's victory may be that the voters wanted to punish the DPJ-led administration for its blunders.　自民党の勝因は、民主党政権に対する有権者の「懲罰」の感情が強く働いたことにある。いわば敵失に助けられた面が大きい。The Hatoyama administration's haphazard handling of the relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station in Okinawa Prefecture undermined the relationship of trust between the central and local governments and crippled the Japan-U.S. alliance.　鳩山内閣の米軍普天間飛行場移設問題を巡る場当たり的対応は政府と沖縄との信頼関係を決定的に壊し、日米同盟も揺るがせた。The following Kan Cabinet took a winding course in coping with the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the crisis at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant. Public distrust in politics peaked as Prime Minister Naoto Kan clung to his post after announcing his intention to resign.　菅内閣は、東日本大震災や原発事故処理で迷走した。菅首相は退陣を表明しながら居座り、政治不信は頂点に達した。The Noda administration made some laudable achievements, including the enactment of the law on the integrated reform of the social security and tax systems, but he failed to achieve unity in his party, thereby causing it to split.　野田内閣は、社会保障・税一体改革関連法の成立など、評価できる点はあったが、民主党をまとめ切れず、党分裂を招いた。The gap between the people's expectations of the DPJ to effect real change in government three years ago and their subsequent disappointment was demonstrated by the huge loss of seats suffered in Sunday's election. The DPJ's humiliating setback was symbolized by former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama's decision not to run in the election and Kan's defeat in a single-seat constituency.　３年前の政権交代への期待と失望の落差が、大幅な議席減に表れている。鳩山元首相の不出馬と菅前首相の小選挙区での敗退が象徴的である。Some incumbent Cabinet ministers lost their Diet seats. Among them are Chief Cabinet Secretary Osamu Fujimura, Finance Minister Koriki Jojima, Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Shinji Tarutoko, and Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Minister Makiko Tanaka.　藤村官房長官、城島財務相、樽床総務相、田中文部科学相ら現職閣僚が相次いで落選した。Many voters must have used their votes to express their stern criticism of the DPJ over its campaign platform for the 2009 general election, which incorporated such populist policies as a handout of child-rearing allowances and making expressway tolls free without securing definite sources of revenue.　確たる財源がないのに、子ども手当や高速道路無料化など大衆迎合の政策を盛り込んだ政権公約（マニフェスト）に対する痛烈な批判票が多かったに違いない。The DPJ must rebuild itself based on the experience it gained as a ruling party.　民主党は、与党の経験を踏まえて党を再建させねばならない。Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party), which had aimed to become a so-called third political force, made a strong showing, securing enough seats to exert a certain amount of influence on the national political scene. Its two popular campaign faces--party leader Shintaro Ishihara and acting leader Toru Hashimoto--were able to successfully appeal to the voters. Your Party, which has a cooperative relationship with Ishin no Kai, also made gains.　「第３極」を目指した日本維新の会は躍進し、国政への一定の影響力を確保した。石原代表と橋下代表代行の「二枚看板」がアピールしたのだろう。協力関係にあるみんなの党も議席を伸ばした。Nippon Mirai no To (Tomorrow Party of Japan) suffered disappointing results. Ichiro Ozawa and other DPJ defectors tried to survive by joining the party headed by Shiga Gov. Yukiko Kada and gathering political forces opposing tax increase and nuclear power generation. Their strategy came up short.　日本未来の党は惨敗した。滋賀県の嘉田知事を担ぎ、反増税、脱原発勢力の結集を狙った小沢一郎氏ら民主党離党組の生き残り戦略は、失速を余儀なくされた。==='Zero-nuclear policy' unsuccessful　◆「原発ゼロ」は広がらず◆The LDP's election partnership with Komeito in single-seat constituencies bore fruit. And the LDP gained in districts where "third political force" parties competed with another.　自民党は小選挙区で公明党との選挙協力が奏功した。「第３極」同士が競合する中、漁夫の利を得たとも言える。The LDP's advance may also partly be attributed to the fact that its policies appeared more convincing than those of other parties.　自民党の政策が、他党に比べて説得力を持ったこともあろう。The LDP appealed to voters by pledging to carry out bold monetary-easing policies to end the nation's deflationary trend and implement comprehensive reform of the social security and tax system, centering on the hike in the consumption tax rate.　自民党は、デフレ脱却のための大胆な金融緩和や、消費税率引き上げを柱とする社会保障と税の一体改革の実行を訴えた。The party also emphasized its energy policy, under which nuclear power plants whose safety is confirmed will be put back online at least for the time being and the best combination of power generation sources will be decided over time. It did not advocate eliminating nuclear power generation.　当面は安全性を確認できた原発を再稼働しつつ、時間をかけて最適な電源構成を確立するというエネルギー政策も強調した。「原発ゼロ」は掲げなかった。The fact that the national security environment has become increasingly harsh may also have helped the LDP widen its appeal to voters as it stressed its pledge of rebuilding the nation's diplomatic policy.　日本の安全保障環境が厳しさを増していることも、外交の立て直しを強調した自民党への支持拡大につながったのではないか。The LDP is set to form a coalition government with Komeito. But the coalition cannot secure a majority in the House of Councillors even when the strength of two parties is combined.　自民党は、公明党と連立政権を組む方針だが、参院では自公両党合わせても過半数に届かない。It is highly likely the Diet will remain divided with no party holding a majority in the upper house, at least until the next upper house election scheduled for next summer.少なくとも来年夏の参院選までは衆参ねじれ国会が継続する公算が大きい。Given this, it is essential for a ruling coalition to maintain cooperation among the three parties--the DPJ, the LDP and Komeito--which realized the comprehensive pension and tax reform, and make thorough efforts to form a consensus in policies.　一体改革を実現した民自公３党の協調路線を維持し、丁寧に合意形成を図ることが不可欠だ。As the LDP and Komeito, when combined, have garnered more than the two-thirds of the total seats in the lower house, bills can be passed into law by a second vote even if they are voted down in the upper chamber.　自公両党は衆院の３分の２以上の議席を獲得したため、参院で法案が否決されても衆院で再可決できる。Yet precedent shows that if they run the administration high-handedly, they will cause a backlash of public sentiment in the next upper house election. The two parties should bear in mind the need to manage the administration with humility.だが、強引な政権運営を行えば、次の参院選で民意の揺り戻しを招くという先例がある。謙虚な政権運営を心がけるべきだ。We were surprised at the wide-ranging swing in the number of seats won by parties, as was seen in the 2005 lower house election contested over the postal privatization issue, the 2009 election that brought a change of government with the DPJ coming into power, and the latest election.　それにしても郵政解散の２００５年衆院選、政権交代が起きた０９年、そして今回と、獲得議席の振れ幅の大きさに驚かされる。

衆院選きょう投票　日本再生へ誤りなき１票を

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 17, 2012)National revitalization, end to political stagnation crucial衆院選きょう投票　日本再生へ誤りなき１票を（12月16日付・読売社説）　◆政治の停滞から脱却しよう◆Voting today in the 46th House of Representatives election provides people with an important opportunity to choose a new political alignment that will bear the responsibility of charting the nation's future course.　第４６回衆院選は、きょう投票日を迎える。It is hoped voters will cast their precious vote after examining the policies, capabilities and disposition of each party and candidate.　日本の将来を担う、新しい政治のかたちを決める重要な選択の機会だ。各政党と候補者の政策や能力・資質をしっかりと見極め、貴重な１票を行使したい。The world is going through drastic changes. This year, new regimes were inaugurated in China, North Korea, Russia, France and a number of other countries. U.S. President Barack Obama was reelected for a second term, and South Korea will elect a new president on Wednesday.　世界は激動している。今年、中国、北朝鮮、ロシア、フランスなど多くの国で新体制が発足した。オバマ米大統領は再選され、韓国も１９日に新大統領を選出する。　◆政権選択が最大の焦点◆We should not allow only Japan to lag under our nation's climate of political indecisiveness.　日本だけが、いつまでも「決められない政治」を続けるわけにはいかない。Reviving the vigor of the nation's political system is the first and most urgent task if Japan wants to overcome deflation and the strong yen, attain both economic resuscitation and fiscal reconstruction, strengthen the Japan-U.S. alliance and rebuild its diplomacy vis-a-vis other Asian countries.デフレ・円高を克服し、経済再生と財政再建を両立させる。日米同盟を強化し、アジア外交を再構築する。それには、何よりも政治の立て直しが急務だ。The lower house election is for voters to choose an administration to lead the country. The biggest focal point in this poll is whether the Democratic Party of Japan-led alliance will continue to hold the reins of government or a coalition government of the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito will retake the helm.　衆院選は政権を選択する選挙である。民主党中心の政権の継続か、自民、公明両党の連立政権への回帰か。これが最大の焦点だ。The DPJ is facing a strong headwind. It made a historical achievement when it enabled a package of bills related to the integrated reform of the social security and tax systems to pass through the Diet. But the party's campaign pledges for 2009 lower house election were in tatters, and its pledge of "taking key roles in the decision-making process away from bureaucrats and putting them into the hands of politicians" was only an empty slogan that caused much political confusion. We believe these factors are playing against the DPJ.　民主党は、厳しい逆風を受けている。社会保障・税一体改革関連法の成立は歴史的成果だが、２００９年衆院選政権公約（マニフェスト）は破綻し、「脱官僚」も掛け声倒れで政治を混乱させたことが響いているのだろう。===12 parties field candidatesWe highly commend the LDP with regard to the support it gave to allow the passage of the bills on the integrated reform of social security and tax systems even though it was an opposition party.　自民党は、野党ながら一体改革に協力した点は評価できる。But the LDP failed to act like a responsible party in some cases when it resisted entering deliberations on bills and jolted the DPJ-led government by presenting censure motions--all tactics engineered by exploiting the divided Diet, in which the ruling bloc lacks a majority of seats in the House of Councillors.しかし、衆参ねじれを利用し、法案審議に抵抗したり、問責決議で民主党政権を揺さぶったりし、責任政党らしからぬ対応もあった。This election saw candidates fielded by 12 parties--the biggest number since the current election system that combines single-seat constituencies and a proportional representation system was introduced in 1996. This resulted from splits within the DPJ and the inroads into national politics made by regional parties.　今回は、小選挙区比例代表並立制の導入以来、最多の１２党が候補者を擁立した。民主党の分裂と地域政党の国政進出が要因だ。Before this election campaign officially kicked off on Dec. 4, new parties vying to form a "third political force" were formed or merged one after another. They undeniably put priority on these moves as an election strategy, with coordination of their policies and political philosophy taking a back seat.　公示直前、「第３極」を目指す新党の離合集散が相次いだ。理念や政策のすり合わせを二の次にして、勢力結集による選挙対策を最優先したことは否めない。To which party and candidate should we entrust our votes to reflect our will? The credibility of campaign pledges was severely hurt with the DPJ's botched efforts, but we should pay attention most to parties' policies.　どの政党・候補者に思いを託せば良いのか。民主党の失敗でマニフェストの信頼は失墜したが、やはり重視すべきは政策だ。With the ever-graying society, declining birthrate and worsening fiscal conditions, the role of the government is shifting from distributing benefits to distributing burdens. We should closely examine if parties' policies are backed up by concrete plans for revenue sources and if they have presented ways to realize their policies.　少子高齢化の進展や財政悪化に伴い、政治の役割は、「利益」の分配から「負担」の分配へと移りつつある。政策に財源の裏付けはあるのか。実現への手順が示されているのか。きちんと精査することが大切である。In regard to economic policy, an area of particular interest to the public, the DPJ in its election platform set the goal of a nominal 3 percent year-on-year growth rate, or around 2 percent after inflation. The party says it will place priority on helping nurture such emerging sectors as renewable energy and medical and nursing care services. 　国民の関心が高い経済政策で、民主党は名目３％、実質２％程度の目標成長率を掲げた。再生可能エネルギー、医療・介護など新産業の育成に重点を置くという。The LDP, for its part, has attached high importance to reinvigorating the national economy and strengthening Japan's industrial competitiveness. Setting an inflation target of 2 percent, the party has committed itself to a bold monetary-easing policy, saying it will consider the advisability of revising the Bank of Japan Law to allow more collaboration between the government and the central bank.　自民党は経済再生や産業競争力強化を重視する。２％の物価目標を設定し、日銀法改正も視野に政府・日銀の連携を強化して大胆な金融緩和を行うと踏み込んだ。===Diplomatic skills vital　◆外交目標の実現力は◆The issue of Japan's participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership multilateral free trade negotiations had earlier been expected to be a key campaign issue from the viewpoint of the nation's growth strategy. It is disappointing, however, that both the DPJ and the LDP refrained from going into specifics because both have a number of members who either oppose the free trade pact outright or are skeptical about it. 　成長戦略の観点で、環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）参加問題が重要な争点となるはずだったが、民主、自民両党とも、党内に反対・慎重論を抱えるため、各論に入るのを避けたのは残念である。Meanwhile, parties remain sharply split regarding energy policy.　エネルギー政策では、各党の意見が鋭く対立した。The DPJ has pledged to "reduce the number of operating nuclear power plants to zero by the end of the 2030s." Such parties as Nippon Mirai no To (Tomorrow Party of Japan) and the Japanese Communist Party have taken the position of "doing away with nuclear power generation" within an even shorter time frame. The LDP, for that matter, has avoided producing a definite conclusion, saying the party will "determine the optimum makeup of power generation sources over a 10-year time frame." 　民主党は「２０３０年代の原発稼働ゼロ」を目指す。日本未来の党、共産党などはより早い「脱原発」を唱える。自民党は「１０年以内に電源構成のベストミックスを確立」と早急な結論を避けた。Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party) has officially vowed to "break with" nuclear power, but its stance on the matter is incomprehensible because its leader, Shintaro Ishihara, has publicly denied the party made the antinuclear election pledge. 　日本維新の会は「脱原発依存」を掲げながら、石原代表が否定するなど、分かりにくい。A party calling for terminating the nation's nuclear power generation should, as a matter of course, propose ways to cope with the adverse impacts of the "no-nuclear" option on the economy and employment, as well as measures to maintain Japan's nuclear energy-related technological levels. There have been no such proposals made in the lower house campaign and no in-depth debates on the matter.　「脱原発」を主張する党は本来、経済・雇用への悪影響の克服や、原子力技術の維持の具体策を示す責任があるが、その動きはなく、議論は深まらなかった。On diplomacy and national security issues, many parties have called for deepening the Japan-U.S. alliance, each pledging to do its best to defend Japan's territorial integrity, including that over the Senkaku Islands.　外交・安全保障では、多くの党が日米同盟の深化を唱え、尖閣諸島など領土を守ると主張した。The environment surrounding the nation's security has been increasingly severe as shown by the latest launch by North Korea of a long-range ballistic missile and China's military buildup and increasingly assertive maritime activities. 　北朝鮮の弾道ミサイル発射や中国の軍備増強と海洋進出など、日本の安保環境は厳しさを増している。どの党が、外交目標を実現する具体策や交渉力を持つのかを見極めることが重要だ。We urge voters to determine correctly which party has specific measures and ability to negotiate effectively to realize the nation's diplomatic goals.

ネットカジノ界のサラブレッド、３２レッドカジノ

３２レッドカジノは、２００２年にオンラインカジノゲームサイトとして創業を開始いたしました。２００５年には、あのお堅いイギリスのロンドン証券取引所に上場されています。２００３年から２０１２年に至るまで、オンラインカジノゲームの名だたる賞を独占状態なのです。まさにオンラインカジノゲーム界のサラブレッドと呼ばれるにふさわしい、サイト運営内容です。ペイアウトが高いのはもちろんですが、その運営は専門機関から厳しく管理されており、フェアなビジネスで、世界中のオンラインカジノファンを魅了いたしております。今回、日本のアフィリエイト仲介業者を介さず、英語で交渉して、直接、３２レッドカジノとのアフィリエイト契約にこぎ着けました。日本語化が随分と進んでいます。ホームページでサイトの研究をされたら、練習プレー（プラクティス）で遊んでみるのが早道です。慣れてきたら、３０ドル程度送金して、即、実戦が楽しめます。パチンコ屋で使うお金の十分の一の金額で、１０倍遊べます。但し、ルーレットとブラックジャックに限ります。小額をベットして、出来るだけ長い間遊ぶ。これがコツです＾＾。 ３２レッドカジノホームページ ３２レッドカジノ練習プレー（プラクティス）

衆院選あす投票　ネット利用が課題として残る

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 16, 2012)Voters should study policies and vote to change politics衆院選あす投票　ネット利用が課題として残る（12月15日付・読売社説）Sunday's House of Representatives election is important in setting the nation's course. We want to prepare for the vote by scrutinizing each political party's platform.　日本の針路を決める重要な選挙だ。各党の政策をきちんと吟味し、あすの投票日に臨みたい。In this election, 12 parties are fighting a close, heated battle. In contrast, voters appear to be less enthusiastic.　今回の衆院選では、１２もの政党が競う混戦となった反面、有権者側の熱気は今ひとつのように見える。According to a nationwide survey conducted by The Yomiuri Shimbun after the official election campaign kicked off, 82 percent of respondents said they were interested in the forthcoming lower house election, down 10 percentage points from a similar poll conducted ahead of the previous 2009 election. 　読売新聞社が公示後に実施した全国世論調査によると、衆院選に「関心がある」と回答した人は８２％で、前回の２００９年衆院選に比べて１０ポイント低い。The number of early votes cast so far for Sunday's election was also reportedly lower than that for the previous election. 　期日前投票も、前回よりは総じて低調という。This is attributable to growing public distrust of politics due to the current political disarray.　その理由として、政治の混迷が続き、政治不信が深まっていることが挙げられるだろう。New parties, formed to challenge established parties, largely serve as mutual-aid entities designed only to help defectors from the Democratic Party of Japan and lower-profile candidates win seats in the election. Apparently drawn up hastily, their proposed measures hardly address issues that people are dissatisfied about.　既成政党を批判する新党も、民主党離党組らが生き残るための選挙互助会の色彩が濃く、政策はいかにも急ごしらえだ。不満の受け皿として十分とは言い難い。In a basic step to change politics, voters must look closely into each party's policies and then exercise their voting right.　政治のあり方を変えるには各党の政策に耳を傾けて、投票権を行使するのが基本である。===Low turnout of young votersMeanwhile, it is a matter of concern that the voting rate for people in their 20s is always significantly lower compared with other age brackets. 　懸念されるのは、２０代の投票率が、常に他の年代を大きく下回っていることだ。However, we want young people, in particular, to become more interested in politics as they will be forced to shoulder various burdens as a result of the nation's financial difficulties and expanding economic disparity among people.　危機的な財政や経済格差の拡大によって、将来様々なツケを背負わされる若者たちこそ、政治にもっと関心を持ってほしい。Parties tend to put measures to support child care on the back burner as they focus on the pension system and health care for the elderly in their social security policies. Some observers say such a tendency reflects the parties' focus on middle-aged and elderly people with higher voting rates.　社会保障政策では、高齢者の年金・医療が優先され、子育て支援策は後回しになりがちだ。政党がこれまで、選挙で投票率の高い中高年齢層を重視してきたことの表れだとの指摘もある。The nation's economy has worsened. If the parties make wrong policy choices now, job scarcity for university students and other young people could become serious again. 　景気は悪化している。ここで政策を誤ると、大学生らの就職難が再び深刻になりかねない。Concerned over the higher youth jobless rate, the parties have proposed employment measures such as making part-time workers known as freeters regular employees and providing young people with assistance to develop job skills. Some parties have pushed for steps friendly to young people and families with small children in their campaign pledges.　各党は若年失業率の高さを踏まえ、フリーターの正規雇用化や若者の就労支援などの雇用対策を掲げている。若者や子育て世帯向けの重点政策を出した党もある。===Use of Net remains an issueVoters are being urged to assess what party has proposed realistic measures that are unlikely to pass excessive burdens onto future generations. 　どの党の政策が現実的か、次世代に過大な負担を回さないか、きちんと見極めてもらいたい。To boost the turnout of young voters, the expanded use of the Internet for elections would be effective.　若年層の投票率を高めるには、選挙でのインターネット利用を一層拡大することが、有力な手段になるだろう。However, even updating the website of a party after the start of an official campaign could violate the Public Offices Election Law if the act is deemed part of election campaign activities.　ところが、公示後の政党のホームページ更新は選挙運動と見なされれば公職選挙法違反となる。With the number of Net users nearing 100 million and Japanese expatriates casting their ballots from overseas, such a regulation is unreasonable. It is no wonder that many parties have criticized the outdated law during the latest election campaign.　ネット利用者が１億人に迫り、海外の日本人も投票する中で、こうした規制には合理性が乏しい。今回の衆院選を通じて、各党から公選法は時代遅れだといった指摘が上がったのはもっともだ。We hope the parties will work on establishing rules on the use of the Internet for elections before next summer's House of Councillors election. 　来夏の参院選に間に合うよう、各党はネット利用のルールづくりに取り組んでもらいたい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 15, 2012)（2012年12月15日01時41分  読売新聞）

オンライカジノなら英国証券取引所上場の３２レッドカジノです

原発政策　「稼働ゼロ」の副作用も語れ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 15, 2012)Parties must be honest about risks of 'zero-nuclear' future原発政策　「稼働ゼロ」の副作用も語れ（12月14日付・読売社説）Formulating a nuclear energy policy is a vitally important task, one that would not only help ensure a stable power supply, but also protect the environment, and affect the nation's economy, diplomacy and national security--the whole spectrum of matters related to steering the ship of state.　原子力政策は、電力の安定供給はもとより、経済や環境保全、外交・安全保障など、国家運営の全般にかかわる重要な課題である。Many parties in the current House of Representatives campaign, held in the aftermath of the nuclear disaster at Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, have adopted "zero nuclear" pledges. These parties, however, have neglected to explain the wide-ranging risks of eliminating nuclear power.　東京電力福島第一原子力発電所の事故を受け、多くの政党が衆院選の公約に「原発ゼロ」を掲げている。だが、さまざまな副作用についての説明が足りない。We urge voters not to be swayed by slogans only aimed at winning the election, but to determine calmly which parties and candidates would pursue a realistic nuclear power policy.　有権者は選挙目当てのスローガンに惑わされず、現実的な原発政策を掲げる政党や候補者を、冷静に見極めてもらいたい。Parties including Nippon Mirai no To (Tomorrow Party of Japan) and the Japanese Communist Party have taken the position of never allowing any of the nation's nuclear reactors to resume operating.　日本未来の党や共産党などは原発の再稼働を一切認めないとしている。===Fuel cost up 3 tril. yen a yearTheir assertion that this country could "do without nuclear power" on the grounds that there were no blackouts this summer is far off the mark.今年の夏に停電が起きなかったことから、「原発なしでも電気は足りている」などと主張するが、的外れな指摘である。The truth is that the nation walked a shaky tightrope in terms of the power supply this summer. With all reactors but two idle, power outages were only narrowly averted by mobilizing all thermal power stations available, including some outdated ones. The result was an increase of 3 trillion yen for the year's fuel costs for power generation, causing one power utility after another to announce rate hikes.　原発が２基しか稼働していないため、古い火力発電所を総動員して停電を回避する綱渡りの状態だった。燃料費は年３兆円も増え、電気料金値上げの動きも相次いでいる。Anyone who ignores the adverse impacts of power shortages deserves to be called irresponsible.電力不足の悪影響から目をそらすのは無責任だ。Parties including the Liberal Democratic Party, the Democratic Party of Japan and Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party), on the other hand, have acknowledged the need to restart the nation's nuclear power plants to ensure a stable supply of electricity, as long as the reactors can be confirmed safe. We see these positions as valid and reasonable.　自民党や民主党、日本維新の会などは、電力安定供給のために安全を確認できた原発の再稼働を容認した。妥当な判断である。However, it is problematic that many party platforms promise to walk away from nuclear power inside a certain time frame, such as the DPJ's pledge to "reduce the number of operating nuclear power plants to zero by the end of the 2030s."　問題は民主党の「２０３０年代に原発稼働ゼロ」など、期限付きの脱原発公約が多いことだ。Replacing nuclear power with solar and other renewable sources of energy while boosting energy efficiency would cost the nation more than 100 trillion yen, according to one government projection. This would have to be funded either by higher electricity rates or more taxes. How can the hollowing-out of the nation's industrial sector be stopped in the face of increased production costs, and bankruptcies of small and midsized businesses caused by this policy?　原発に代わり、太陽光など再生可能エネルギーや省エネを拡大するコストは、政府の試算で１００兆円を超える。電気料金引き上げや税金で賄うしかあるまい。生産費上昇による産業空洞化や中小企業倒産をどう防ぐというのか。The simplistic argument that introducing renewable energy sources would stimulate the economy is hardly convincing.　再生エネを導入すれば経済成長にもつながるという、安易な主張は説得力に欠ける。===Reveal 'inconvenient truths'We commend the LDP for not setting a zero-nuclear goal, as the party is apparently aware of its position as a responsible party aiming to win back the reins of government. However, the LDP's 10-year time frame for "determining the optimum makeup of power generation sources" is much too slow.　自民党が「原発ゼロ」を掲げていないのは、政権奪還を目指す責任政党として評価できる。ただ、「最適な電源構成を１０年以内に決める」という方針は遅すぎる。The municipalities that host nuclear power facilities of course deserve consideration. Aomori Prefecture, the site of a nuclear fuel reprocessing plant, is particularly anxious about the possibility of being forced into becoming a final resting place for nuclear waste.　原発の立地自治体への配慮も不可欠だ。特に使用済み核燃料の再処理工場がある青森県は、核廃棄物の最終処分を押しつけられるのではないかと心配している。The political parties contesting the election must revise their positions to support the continued, but safe, use of nuclear power. They should also quickly devise a plan to keep the nuclear fuel recycling program going, and determine how radioactive waste should be finally disposed of.　原発の安全を確保したうえで活用を続ける方針を、明確にする必要がある。核燃料サイクルや放射性廃棄物の最終処分の方策を、早く示すことも求められよう。If Japan recklessly adopted a zero-nuclear goal, it would soon cease to be a partner of the United States in its nuclear nonproliferation strategy. This would cause a fissure in the Japan-U.S. alliance, possibly to the detriment of our national interests.　日本が「原発ゼロ」に走れば、米国の核不拡散戦略のパートナーではなくなる。日米同盟にヒビが入り、国益を損ないかねない。Every political party needs to have the honesty and candor to tell voters "inconvenient truths" about a possible zero-nuclear Japan.　各党は「原発ゼロ」の“不都合な真実”も率直に語るべきだ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 14, 2012)（2012年12月14日01時31分  読売新聞）

北ミサイル発射　安保理は制裁強化を決議せよ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 14, 2012)UNSC should tighten sanctions on Pyongyang北ミサイル発射　安保理は制裁強化を決議せよ（12月13日付・読売社説）Ignoring international warnings, North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile under the guise of launching what it claimed to be an observation satellite.　北朝鮮が、「人工衛星打ち上げ」と称して、長距離弾道ミサイルの発射を強行した。Once again, Pyongyang flouted without compunction U.N. resolutions that prohibit the country from engaging in any launching activities involving ballistic missile technology.　発射を禁じた国連安全保障理事会の決議を再び愚弄する暴挙だ。After North Korea's previous missile launch in April ended in failure, the U.N. Security Council issued a presidential statement warning it would "take action accordingly" in the event of another launch or a nuclear test.　４月に北朝鮮の発射が失敗に終わった後、安保理は議長声明で、新たな発射や核実験には「相応の行動をとる」と警告していた。We strongly urge the Security Council to swiftly adopt a resolution to tighten sanctions on North Korea.速やかに北朝鮮に対する制裁措置の強化を決議すべきである。The United States has imposed powerful financial sanctions on Iran, which have had a certain level of effect. We believe it is time to consider similar actions on North Korea.　イランに対しては米国が強力な金融制裁を講じて一定の効果を上げている。北朝鮮にも同様の措置を検討する時ではないか。China, a permanent Security Council member, must recognize the responsibility it bears in this matter. If China blocks a UNSC binding resolution, North Korea will do nothing to change its reckless behavior.　安保理常任理事国の中国は責任を自覚すべきだ。中国の反対で拘束力ある決議が採択できぬようでは、北朝鮮は態度を改めまい。=== Pyongyang's true motiveNorth Korea hailed the missile launch as a success, saying it put a "satellite into orbit as planned." 　北朝鮮は今回、「衛星を予定の軌道に乗せた」と成功を誇示している。This time around, it appears North Korea succeeded in controlling the missile's flight, separating second- and third-stage rockets, the main tasks it faced toward developing the capability to fire long-range ballistic missiles. North Korea's missile range has extended considerably and its accuracy has improved, posing a grave threat to the international community.課題だった飛行の制御や２段目と３段目の切り離しに成功した可能性がある。射程延伸や精度向上で脅威は増大している。Why is North Korea so obsessed with launching "satellites" at enormous costs? It is unthinkable the true purpose was to put a shoddy satellite into orbit. The truth is that the hermetic country believes its survival depends on bolstering its nuclear deterrence capability by possessing atomic weapons and missiles to carry the payloads.　北朝鮮が巨費を投じて発射を繰り返すのは、貧弱な人工衛星打ち上げが真の目的ではあるまい。核兵器と、その運搬手段のミサイルの保有で核抑止力を強化してこそ生き残れるとの判断があろう。According to South Korean TV reports, then former chief of the General Staff of the Korean People's Army delivered an address to military executives at the start of this year, saying: "Launching a satellite is equal to [launching] a weaponized rocket. It enables us to install nuclear weapons on rockets capable of reaching the U.S. mainland."　韓国のテレビによると、北朝鮮の人民軍元総参謀長が今年初め、幹部に対し「衛星打ち上げはロケット兵器と同じだ。核爆弾搭載で米本土まで飛ばすことができる」と講演したという。The United States is concerned these remarks may come true.米国が恐れるのは、まさにそういう事態だ。Japan, which is already within the range of North Korea's Rodong intermediate-range ballistic missile, must strengthen its alliance with the United States and enhance its deterrence against North Korea. To achieve this it is crucial that Japan be able to exercise its right to collective self-defense regarding its missile defense system.　日本は既に北朝鮮の中距離弾道ミサイル・ノドンの射程にある。日米同盟を強化し、北朝鮮への抑止力を高めるには、ミサイル防衛などを巡り集団的自衛権の行使を可能にすることが求められる。===J-Alert worked smoothlyWednesday's missile launch was regarded as a surprise, as the international community was under the impression that North Korea had decided to delay the launch. This highlights the limits of intelligence analysis on North Korea's activities.　今回は、延期かと思われた中での奇襲的な発射だった。北朝鮮情報の分析の限界を示している。Nevertheless, the Japanese government was able to disseminate information about the launch to local governments in Okinawa Prefecture through the J-Alert early warning system six minutes after the launch.　それでも日本政府はミサイル発射の６分後に全国瞬時警報システム（Ｊアラート）で沖縄県内の自治体などに第一報を速報した。The government's success in conveying information this time around shows it has learned from lessons of the past and improved its system for confirming, conveying and announcing such important information.In 2009, the government issued a false alarm before North Korea actually fired a missile, and in April this year, the government's announcement of the missile launch was significantly delayed. 　まずまず円滑に情報発信できたのは、３年前の「発射」誤報と今年４月の大幅な発表遅延の反省を踏まえ、情報確認・伝達・発表の仕組みを改善した成果だ。The Self-Defense Forces deployed three Aegis-equipped destroyers with interceptor missiles to the East China Sea as well as units equipped with PAC-3 missiles to Ishigakijima island in Okinawa Prefecture and other areas to prepare for the missile's fall.　自衛隊は、迎撃ミサイル搭載のイージス艦３隻を東シナ海に、地対空誘導弾部隊を沖縄・石垣島などに派遣し、ミサイル落下の事態に備えた。The deployment was completed in a much shorter time than for the previous two launches.部隊配置完了は前２回の発射時より大幅に早かった。What is the key to success in national security and crisis management? It is to meticulously draw up contingency plans; conduct thorough training; and incorporate lessons learned to make the plans more rigorous.　不測の事態に備えて計画を練り、訓練を重ね、反省点を計画の改善に生かしていく。それが安全保障・危機管理の要諦である。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 13, 2012)（2012年12月13日01時53分  読売新聞）

年金制度　甘い公約では改革が進まない

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 13, 2012)Campaign pledges weak on pension system reform年金制度　甘い公約では改革が進まない（12月12日付・読売社説）How will political parties maintain the nation's pension system, which is in a critical situation due to the declining birthrate and aging population? Their campaign pledges mainly call for expansion of pension benefits and lack specific measures.　少子高齢化で危機的状況に陥った年金制度をどう維持するのか。　各政党の政権公約は給付の拡充をうたったものが目につき、具体策に乏しい。Pension benefits have continued to swell as the population ages. However, revenue for premiums to fund the pension system has not increased because of a decline in the working population and a drop in wages because of the sluggish economy.　高齢人口の増加に伴い、年金給付額の膨張が続いている。一方、労働力人口の減少や景気低迷による賃金下落で、財源の保険料収入は伸びない。Despite this situation, the Liberal Democratic Party stresses the need to increase "benefits from welfare programs" for senior citizens receiving low pensions while maintaining the existing pension system.　こうした状況にもかかわらず、自民党は、現行の年金制度を基本に低年金者へ「福祉的給付」の上乗せの必要性を強調している。In regard to the government's share of contributions to the basic pension fund, which was raised from one-third to half, the LDP pledges to make this ratio permanent by using revenue from the consumption tax.　３分の１から２分の１に引き上げられた基礎年金の国庫負担割合については、消費税を財源に確実に恒久化することも公約している。If the LDP does this, the party should at the same time review the current situation in which taxpayers' money is used for high-income earners' basic pension at the same ratio as that for low-income earners.　それならば同時に、高所得者の基礎年金にも低所得者と同様の割合で税を使っている現状も見直すべきだろう。===Footing a large billThe Democratic Party of Japan and Nippon Mirai no To (Tomorrow Party of Japan) advocate the creation of a "guaranteed minimum pension," which would require greater financial resources, while New Komeito insists on providing additional pension benefits to people receiving low benefits.　民主党や日本未来の党は、さらに財源を要する「最低保障年金」の創設を唱え、公明党も低年金者への年金加算を主張している。If the benefits are expanded without asking people to shoulder a larger burden, taxpayers' money to be used to make up for the shortfall in resources will increase. Insisting on such an expansion is irresponsible.　新たな負担を求めずに給付を拡充するだけでは、年金財源の不足分を補う税金投入は増える一方であり、無責任だ。If pension benefits are simply increased, future generations will end up footing the bill, widening the intergenerational disparity between the young and the elderly. Under the circumstances, we believe the nation's pension system will eventually collapse.　将来世代へのツケ回しとなり、高齢者と若者の世代間格差が拡大する。これでは早晩、制度が破綻するのではないか。What is needed to ensure the stability of the pension system is to curb benefits.　年金制度の安定に欠かせないのは、給付の抑制である。In this regard, it is commendable that Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party) is calling for "raising the pension eligibility age through creation of employment for the elderly" and that Your Party said it would "consider cutting pension benefits for high-income earners."　その点で、日本維新の会が「高齢者雇用の創出を図って、年金支給開始年齢引き上げ」を掲げたことや、みんなの党が「高所得高齢者への年金支給減額の検討」を打ち出したのは評価できる。It is problematic, however, that the two parties advocate a "shift to a funded pension system."　一方で、両党が「年金制度の積み立て方式への移行」を唱えているのは疑問だ。===Double burdenAt present, we have a pay-as-you-go pension system, under which benefits for current pensioners are funded by premiums paid by the working population. If the system is shifted to a funded pension system, the nation's workforce would shoulder a double burden--paying premiums to provide benefits to the elderly as well as premiums to fund pensions they would receive after retirement.　現行の年金制度は、現役世代が納めた保険料を高齢者の年金に充てる賦課方式だ。積み立て方式に移行する場合、現役世代は高齢者のための保険料と、自分の老後に備えた積み立てという二重の負担を強いられ、現実的ではない。Ishin no Kai advocates the creation of "a special inheritance tax to fund pension benefits," but the revenue raised by such a tax would be far short of what is needed. The party does not explain fully how adequate financial resources could be raised, as it does not want the social security system funded by the upcoming consumption tax hike.　維新の会は「年金目的特別相続税」の創設を提唱しているが、現在必要な年金財源には到底足りない。消費増税分を社会保障に充てることも否定しており、どう財源を賄うのか説明不足と言える。To ensure stable financing of the pension system, many issues should be reviewed.　年金財政の安定のため、見直すべき課題は多い。In 2004, a plan to lower pension levels was introduced in line with the decrease in the working population, but it has not been enforced. It is necessary to implement this plan at an early date.　２００４年に、現役世代の人口減少に合わせ、年金水準を引き下げる仕組みが導入されたが、一度も発動されていない。早期の実施が求められよう。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 12, 2012)（2012年12月12日01時22分  読売新聞）

教育政策　子どもの将来見据えた論戦を

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 12, 2012)Election debates should take up education policy教育政策　子どもの将来見据えた論戦を（12月11日付・読売社説）Voters pay special attention to education policy. How should the children who will be responsible for Japan's future be nurtured? Each political party should present a clear future vision in this regard.　教育政策は有権者の関心が高い。次代を担う子どもたちをどう育成するのか。各党はその将来像を示すべきである。The Liberal Democratic Party listed education as a priority in its policy pledges for the upcoming House of Representatives election. It is one of the party's four pillars for national revival, along with the economy, diplomacy and quality of life. The party's proposals include reinstating Saturday classes and reviewing the current system of six years of primary school, three years each of middle and high school and four years of university.　公約で教育を重点課題に掲げたのは自民党だ。経済、外交、暮らしと並ぶ再生の４本柱に位置づけ、「土曜授業の復活」や「６・３・３・４制の見直し」などを挙げている。LDP President Shinzo Abe probably wants to try again on education reform, which he aimed at while he was prime minister but left only half-done.　安倍総裁には、首相時代に、道半ばに終わった教育改革に再挑戦する思いもあろう。===Undue influence of teachers unionIn the election campaign, Abe has repeatedly said the Democratic Party of Japan, which is influenced by the Japan Teachers Union, cannot be entrusted with the task of truly reviving the nation's education.　安倍氏はこれまでの選挙戦で、日本教職員組合の影響を受けている民主党には、真の教育再生はできない、と繰り返し述べている。For example, the national achievement test, which was introduced in 2007 to improve schoolchildren's academic abilities, was scaled down after the DPJ took power, so that instead of having all students in targeted years participate, the test was given only at a sample of about 30 percent of schools nationwide. The shift came out of consideration for criticism from the teachers union that such a test would invite competition.　学力向上策として２００７年に始まった全国学力テストは、民主党に政権移行後、全員参加方式から約３割を抽出する方式に縮小された。「競争をあおる」という日教組の批判に配慮したものだ。Because the sampling method targets a smaller number of schools, detailed analysis of results cannot be conducted. It is understandable that the LDP argues for returning to the full participation format.　抽出方式で対象校が減り、きめ細かな分析ができなくなった。自民党が全員参加方式に戻すと主張しているのは理解できる。Making public high school tuition-free was one of the DPJ-led administration's pet policy measures. The LDP has proposed this be limited to children whose parents earn under a certain amount.　民主党政権の目玉政策の一つである高校授業料の無償化についても、自民党は対象に所得制限を設ける方針を打ち出した。On the other hand, it is a cause for concern that the LDP itself has made policy proposals that would require large-scale fiscal spending, such as one to make preschool education tuition-free.　一方で、幼児教育の無償化など大規模な財政支出を伴う政策を盛り込んだことは懸念される。Under the current fiscal situation, which borders on crisis, it is essential to secure fiscal resources. If the LDP is serious about returning to power, it should not end up listing policy measures simply to please the public. Rather, we want it to present a realistic policy course.　危機的な財政状況の中では、財源の確保が重要だ。政権復帰を目指す以上、大衆受けする政策を並べるだけでなく、現実的な道筋を示してもらいたい。Meanwhile, we consider the DPJ's policy pledges on education insufficient, as they offer little in concrete terms.　民主党の教育に関する公約が具体策に乏しいのは物足りない。===Unclear role of education boardsIn this election, the role of boards of education is another important issue, especially after the functional inability of the Otsu Municipal Board of Education came to light following the suicide of a middle school student in the city who had been bullied.　今回の選挙では、教育委員会の在り方も重要な論点である。大津市の中学生がいじめを受けて自殺した事件で、市教委の機能不全が問題視されたためだ。The LDP proposes that full-time school superintendents appointed by the heads of local governments with the consent of local assemblies should be in charge of education boards.　自民党は、議会の同意を得て首長が任命する常勤の教育長を責任者とするよう提案している。Regarding this point, the DPJ's policy pledges say only that the education board system should be reviewed.　この点でも民主党は「制度の見直し」を公約しているだけだ。Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party) suggests the system be abolished, while Your Party proposes that local governments be given discretion over issues concerning the system.　日本維新の会は「制度の廃止」に言及し、みんなの党は「自治体による選択制」を主張する。Under the current education board system introduced shortly after the end of World War II, education board members, appointed from among local residents, have a council system to make decisions on such important issues as teacher personnel affairs and the adoption of textbooks, to keep education from being politically influenced by local government heads.　戦後導入された教委制度では、教育が首長による政治的な影響を受けないよう、地域住民の中から任命された教育委員が合議制で、教員の人事や教科書採択などの重要事項を決めてきた。But it cannot be denied that where responsibilities lie has become unclear as the education board system has become a mere formality despite its intended independence. Who will be responsible for education? In-depth discussions should be held on this point.　だが、独立性を付与したはずの仕組みが形骸化し、責任の所在が不明確になっている面は否めない。教育に誰が責任を持つのか、踏み込んだ議論が求められる。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 11, 2012)（2012年12月11日01時46分  読売新聞）

農業政策　バラマキいつまで続けるのか

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 11, 2012)Farmers need to be taken off the dole農業政策　バラマキいつまで続けるのか（12月9日付・読売社説）With trade liberalization in mind, strengthening the structure of the nation's agricultural sector cannot be delayed any longer.　貿易自由化をにらんで農業の体質強化は待ったなしである。However, the campaign platforms of the leading parties in the upcoming House of Representatives election give prominent place to dole-out policies aimed at wooing farm votes. We would rather have them pursue policies to actually create a strong farm sector.　ところが、衆院選の政権公約では、「農村票」を目当てにしたばらまき路線が目立つ。強い日本農業を実現する政策こそを競うべきだ。One point at issue is the income compensation system for individual farming households. The program, an election pledge of the Democratic Party of Japan for the 2009 lower house election and introduced in fiscal 2010, provides uniform government subsidies to rice and other farmers.　農業政策の焦点は、戸別所得補償制度の見直しである。　民主党が２００９年衆院選の政権公約に掲げ、１０年度から導入した。コメ農家などに補助金を一律に支払う仕組みだ。For this election, the DPJ is promising to upgrade the program into a law-based system.民主党は今回、所得補償を法律に基づく制度に格上げすると公約している。In fiscal 2011, the budget for the income compensation program grew to 540 billion yen--one-fourth of the total farm-related budget.　所得補償制度の１１年度の予算規模は５４００億円に膨らみ、農業予算の４分の１を占める。Despite the massive amount of money spent, the program can hardly be said to have enlarged the scale of the nation's farms or improved their farming operations. On the contrary, it encourages small producers to continue farming just to receive subsidies.　巨費を投じたにもかかわらず、規模拡大や経営改善につながったとは言い難い。　それどころか、生産性の低い零細農家が補助金目当てに農業を続ける現状を招く結果となった。Policies with questionable cost-effectiveness must be reviewed.費用対効果が極めて乏しい政策は見直さなくてはならない。===LDP policy also flawedBy the same token, the Liberal Democratic Party's farm proposal is also problematic in many respects.　自民党の公約にも問題が多い。Although the LDP is calling for a full review of the income compensation system, it supports a law that would provide subsidies to rice, fruit, vegetable and livestock farmers as long as they maintain their farmland.所得補償制度は全面的に見直すというが、農地の維持を条件に、コメだけでなく果樹や野菜、畜産農家にまで対象を広げ、補助金を支給する新法を制定する方針だ。This is nothing but an expansion of the current farm subsidy program. How can paying farmers just to maintain their land help boost agricultural productivity?　所得補償の拡大以外の何物でもない。農地を持っていれば補助金がもらえる政策が、果たして生産性向上につながるだろうか。Only by focusing government support on highly motivated, full-time farmers will the nation's agricultural sector be able to stand on its own and maintain the support of tax-paying consumers.　意欲的な専業農家に支援を集中してこそ、農業が産業として自立でき、税負担する消費者の理解も得られよう。The LDP is also advocating reconstituting the budget for improving farmland, which the DPJ-led administration has cut significantly. This is just another dole-out policy and will do nothing to realize the "competitive and aggressive farming sector" the LDP claims to support in its election platform.　自民党は、民主党政権が大幅に削減した土地改良事業費を復活させる方針も掲げた。これでは二重のばらまきだ。公約で示した「競争力のある攻めの農業」など到底、実現できまい。With farming so unprofitable, fewer and fewer young people are choosing to take over family farms, which has accelerated the graying of the farm population. To put an end to this vicious cycle, the government needs to present a vision to rehabilitate the farm sector.　収益が上がらないから、後継者が減り、高齢化が進む――。悪循環を断ち切るには、農業再生への将来展望を示す必要がある。===Get ready to join TPPAs Japan prepares to join the talks over the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact, the ability of Japan's farm sector to compete internationally must be strengthened. The government's target of raising the average acreage in rice paddy cultivation to 10 times the current two hectares in five years began with a roar but appears to be ending with a whimper.　環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）交渉参加へ、国際競争力を高めねばならない。１戸当たり平均２ヘクタールの水田面積を５年間で１０倍超にする政府目標も掛け声倒れだ。The course of action that needs to be taken is clear: Integrate the production, processing and sales of farm products; gradually abolish the reduction of paddy acreage, which only hurts farmers' drive to produce; and encourage young farmers and parties from other industries who want to enter the farm sector.　生産・加工・販売を一体化した体制の整備、生産意欲をそぐ減反の段階的廃止、若者や異業種参入組の積極的育成など、進むべき方向は明らかだろう。Just like politicians who only see rice paddies as "voting blocs," the Japan Agricultural Cooperatives group is apparently pressing candidates to show their loyalty in the form of TPP opposition in return for farm votes. This only prevents our nation's farm sector from becoming self-reliant.　ＴＰＰ反対を応援条件に候補者に踏み絵を迫るＪＡグループも、「水田」を「票田」としか見ない政治家と同様、農業の自立を自ら妨げている。Moving away from a subsidy-soaked agricultural administration would be a first step toward rejuvenating the farm sector.　補助金漬け農政からの脱却が、農業再生への第一歩だ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 9, 2012)（2012年12月9日01時32分  読売新聞）

香山リカのココロの万華鏡:距離感つかめる人選び　／東京

December 09, 2012(Mainichi Japan)Kaleidoscope of the Heart: Not too far, not too close香山リカのココロの万華鏡:距離感つかめる人選び　／東京Recently when I phoned my mother in Hokkaido, she told me, "It's cold this year, and it's snowing early." Blizzards caused a major blackout, and some people apparently had to endure the cold at night without heating. She went on, "Just getting to the neighborhood convenience store is difficult."　北海道でひとり暮らしの母親に電話をしたら、「今年は寒いし雪も早い」と言っていた。風雪により大規模停電が起きて、寒い中、暖房器具も使えずに夜を送った人たちもいたようだ。母も「近所のコンビニまで行くのもたいへんなのよ」と言っていた。Nature's fury can quickly develop into a life-or-death situation. 自然の猛威がすぐに“死活問題”にまで発展するのだ。However, when we're in Tokyo watching the news about Hokkaido, the severity of the situation doesn't really hit home. If my mother weren't in Hokkaido, I might just say, "Hmm, that looks tough for them," and have little other interest in the issue.　東京にいると、テレビのニュースでそんな北海道の映像を見ても、なかなかピンとこない。私も母親がいなければ、「へー、たいへんね」という以上の関心も持たなかったかもしれない。To put it another way, it's very difficult for us to sympathize over and comprehend things that aren't directly related to us. Even if we're not deliberately adopting a cold attitude and saying, "Well that's their problem," somewhere inside of us, we're shutting out the things beyond us, thinking, "It's got nothing to do with me."　つまり、私たちにとって、自分に直接、関係のないできごとを理解したり気持ちを寄せたりするのは、とてもむずかしいことなのだ。「人ごとだよね」と積極的に冷たい態度を取らなかったとしても、どこかで「自分には関係ない」とそれ以上、考えるのをシャットアウトしてしまう。This, we can say, is something we have learned to do to protect ourselves: If every time there was a disaster, conflict or accident in a faraway country we were to put ourselves in others' shoes and think "What if that was me?" "How are these people feeling?" then we wouldn't be able to cope with it all. By distancing ourselves a certain degree from the things that aren't directly related to us and telling ourselves, "That doesn't really affect me," we can feel a bit at ease.　しかし、これは私たちが自分を守るための知恵でもある。遠い国や地域で起きている災害や紛争、事故にいちいち「もし私だったらどうなるだろう」「この人たちはどんな思いなのだろう」と感情を移入していたら、身が持たないからだ。自分に直接、かかわらないことにはある程度、距離を置き、「私にはあまり関係ない」と言い聞かせることで、ちょっと安心することができる。But just how much distance should we place between ourselves and such issues? Or how far should we go in thinking, "I wonder how these people are feeling?" Each of us has to consider that balance and decide for ourselves. In my consultation rooms, I'm always thinking about such a balance when I see my patients. I can't get too close and find myself getting upset, but then again, neither can I distance myself too much and end up failing to understand my patients.　自分以外のことに、どれくらいの距離を置くのか。そして、どれくらい「この人たちはどんな気持ちなんだろう」と思いを寄せるのか。このバランスは、それぞれが頭で考えて、自分で決めなければならない。精神科の診察室で患者さんを診るということは、常にこの「距離の置き方」のバランスを考えるということでもある。あまりにも接近しすぎて自分も動揺しないように、でも逆に距離を置きすぎて理解できなくならないように。I wonder what the case is in the House of Representatives election, whose campaigning started on Nov. 4. How far are the various candidates going in distancing themselves from voters? It wouldn't be any good for them to fail to retain any measure of distance between individuals and become too emotional. But at the same time, it's no good having them look down on others from on high all the time, either. As I look at each of the candidates from various political parties, I'm searching for someone who maintains a fine balance in the distances they keep.　さて、もうすぐ公示される選挙ではどうなのだろう。それぞれの候補者たちは、有権者とどんな距離の置き方をするのだろう。ひとりひとりの生活者たちとの距離を失って感情的になりすぎる人も困るが、とはいえあまりに高みから見下ろすような人も困る。その「距離の置き方のバランス」が絶妙の人を探したいな、と思いながら、各党から立候補が予想される人たちの顔ぶれを見ている。I'm not going to state here whether it looks like I'll find a candidate who fits that description, but I think everyone can agree with me when I say finding someone with that sense of balance is no easy task.　「これぞ」という人が見つかりそうかどうか、それはここではあえて書かずにおくが、バランス感覚のある人探しは簡単ではないということは、誰にもわかるのではないだろうか。(By Rika Kayama, psychiatrist)毎日新聞　2012年12月04日　地方版

公共事業　選択と集中で効果的な投資を

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 9, 2012)Public works spending should be highly selective公共事業　選択と集中で効果的な投資を（12月8日付・読売社説）In the wake of the recent ceiling collapse in the Sasago Tunnel on the Chuo Expressway in Yamanashi Prefecture, public works policies have suddenly become a key issue for the upcoming House of Representatives election. 　中央自動車道・笹子トンネルの天井崩落事故を受けて、公共事業政策が衆院選の主要な論点に急浮上している。Neglecting aging roads, bridges and other infrastructure poses a risk to public safety. To maintain such infrastructure with limited funds, political parties are being asked how they would make public works projects more efficient.　老朽化した道路や橋などを放置すれば、国民の安全が脅かされる。限られた財源で社会資本を維持するため、公共事業をどう効率化するかが問われよう。Under what it calls a "national land strengthening plan," the Liberal Democratic Party has called for the investment of 200 trillion yen over 10 years in projects such as disaster management. New Komeito also has unveiled a 10-year 100 trillion yen "new deal" plan to prevent and reduce damage from major disasters. 　自民党は、「国土強靱(きょうじん)化計画」を掲げ、防災などを目的に１０年間で事業費２００兆円の公共投資を想定している。公明党も、１０年間で１００兆円規模の「防災・減災ニューディール」を示した。The Democratic Party of Japan, which called for a shift in focus "from concrete to people" in the previous 2009 lower house election, has once again criticized such plans proposed by the LDP and Komeito as "pork-barrel measures." Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has raised questions, asking people, "Will we return to the old politics of the LDP?"　２００９年の前回衆院選で、「コンクリートから人へ」を掲げた民主党は、今回も自公両党の政策を「ばらまきだ」と批判している。野田首相は、「元の自民党の政策に戻るのか」と牽制(けんせい)した。Meanwhile, Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party) has vowed to boost Japan's competitiveness without increasing public works projects. But it lacks specific measures. 　日本維新の会は、公共事業を拡大せず、日本の競争力を高めると主張するが、具体策は不明だ。===Infrastructure needs attentionRoads, bridges, water and sewerage systems and other infrastructure built nationwide during the period of the nation's rapid economic growth are nearing the end of their life span, causing them to deteriorate rapidly. Taking care of aging infrastructure is an urgent task. 　高度成長期に整備された全国の道路、橋、上下水道などがまもなく寿命を迎え、急速に損傷や劣化が進む。老朽化した社会資本の対策は急務と言える。We hope political parties present measures to alleviate such public concerns.　国民の不安を和らげる方策を各党は示してもらいたい。According to an estimate by the Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry, 190 trillion yen will be needed over the next 50 years to maintain or rebuild infrastructure. Amid financial difficulties, government spending on public works has declined every year. There is no room for sudden major expenses. 　国土交通省の推計では、更新費用は今後５０年間で１９０兆円に膨らむ。財政危機の中、公共事業費は年々減少しており、大盤振る舞いする余裕はない。To minimize costs, finding damaged infrastructure and fixing it early is crucial to extend its life span. The nation should place priority on inspecting and repairing bridges by taking lessons from a series of bridge collapses in the United States due to aging.　危険箇所の早期発見や補修で長寿命化を図り、費用を圧縮することが重要だ。老朽化で橋の落下事故が相次いだ米国を参考に、橋の点検・補修を優先すべきだ。Considering its shrinking population, Japan may be forced to stop using low-use public facilities and infrastructure, such as bridges.　人口減少を考慮すれば、利用が減った公共施設や橋などは使わないなどの決断も求められる。The nation must carry out new public works projects under a strategy of "selection and concentration." A focus should be placed on projects linked to economic growth such as the development of loop roads in urban areas and the building of airports and ports that could become international hubs.　新規事業についても、「選択と集中」を進めねばならない。都市部の環状道路網、国際拠点となる空港や港湾など、経済成長に資する事業は重視する必要がある。===Cost-effectiveness is keyThe DPJ-led government's approval of the extension of Shinkansen lines is questionable in terms of cost-effectiveness. This project should be reviewed. 　民主党政権が整備新幹線の着工を認可したことは、費用対効果から疑問が残る。見直すべきだ。The LDP's national land strengthening plan focuses on large-scale projects such as development along an axis on the western coast of Honshu facing the Sea of Japan so that region could supplement the east in the event of a major disaster there. The plan resembles the revival of the "archipelago-remodeling" policy the party implemented in the 1970s.　自民党の国土強靱化計画が、日本海国土軸など大型事業に固執している点も、７０年代の「列島改造」の復活を連想させる。The political parties must not forget that ineffective economic measures and overdevelopment of roads and airports, which had lower-than-expected demand, were partly blamed for swollen government budget deficits. 　効果の乏しい景気対策、需要予測を下回る道路や空港の乱造などが、膨大な財政赤字の一因となった教訓を忘れてはならない。The idea of allocating part of tax revenues from consumption tax increases to public works projects also should be ruled out. It is vital to make effective public investments by taking advantage of funds and expertise from the private sector.　消費税率引き上げによる税収増の一部を、公共事業に充てようとする案も論外だ。民間の資金や知恵を生かす発想で、効果的な公共投資を進めることが肝要だ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 8, 2012)（2012年12月8日01時24分  読売新聞）

日欧ＥＰＡ　早期合意で劣勢を巻き返せ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 8, 2012)Early conclusion of Japan-EU EPA needed to catch up with S. Korea日欧ＥＰＡ　早期合意で劣勢を巻き返せ（12月7日付・読売社説）Japan has lagged far behind South Korea in expanding economic partnership relationships with other countries and regional blocs. It needs to even the score by concluding an agreement with the European Union as soon as possible.　日本は経済連携を広げる戦略で韓国に大きく出遅れた。欧州連合（ＥＵ）との妥結を急ぎ、劣勢を巻き返す必要がある。The council of EU trade ministers has decided to green-light the start of negotiations for an economic partnership agreement with Japan, which has been a pending issue between the two parties.　ＥＵの貿易相理事会が懸案だった日本との経済連携協定（ＥＰＡ）交渉の開始を決めた。Japanese and EU leaders are expected to officially agree on the kickoff of talks as early as January.来年早々にも首脳間で正式に合意する予定だ。The EU had been hesitant to agree to the start of the negotiations due to concerns over a possible surge in imports from Japan. Although it was a long path to reach this point, we welcome the decision by EU officials to sit at the negotiating table.　日本からの輸出増を警戒するＥＵが交渉になかなか同意せず、長い道のりだったが、交渉のテーブルに着くことを歓迎したい。South Korea, an economic rival to Japan, began negotiations with the EU in 2007 on a free trade agreement, which took effect in July 2011. Under the FTA, the EU and South Korea will gradually lower tariffs on mineral and industrial products, among others, and completely abolish them in five years.　ライバルの韓国は、２００７年にＥＵと交渉を始め、昨年７月に自由貿易協定（ＦＴＡ）を発効させている。鉱工業品などの関税を互いに段階的に引き下げて、５年以内に撤廃する内容だ。===South Korean advantageThe EU levies high tariffs on imports from Japan and others--10 percent on automobiles and 14 percent on flat-screen TVs, for instance. In contrast, the tariff cuts on products from South Korea have started and Seoul has been benefitting from the deal. In the latter half of last year, South Korean automobile exports to the EU doubled compared to the same period in 2010.　ＥＵは日本などから輸入する自動車に１０％、薄型テレビに１４％の高い関税をかけている。これに対し、韓国製品の関税引き下げが始まり、昨年下半期に韓国からの欧州向け自動車輸出が前年同期比で倍増するなど効果は大きい。It is only natural Japan's automobile and household appliance manufacturers, who are competing with their South Korean counterparts, have an increased sense of crisis. The government must accelerate the promotion of the EPA negotiations with the EU to improve Japan's disadvantageous position.　韓国メーカーと競う日本の自動車や家電業界が危機感を強めているのは当然だ。不利な条件を改善するため、政府は対ＥＵ交渉を加速すべきである。However, elements of the negotiations are not clear.　しかし、先行きは不透明だ。The EU said it will cancel the negotiations if it judges Japan's efforts toward market liberalization are insufficient one year after the talks begin. Japan should proceed with caution on this attitude demanding major concessions from Japan.　ＥＵは交渉開始から１年後に、市場開放への日本の取り組みが不十分と判断した場合、交渉を打ち切る方針を示した。日本に大幅譲歩を求める強硬姿勢を警戒しなければならない。We are also concerned over the idea of the EU considering invoking a safeguard action--emergency import restriction--if imports of specific products from Japan sharply increase.　日本から特定品目の輸入が急増した時、ＥＵは緊急輸入制限措置（セーフガード）導入を検討すると牽制(けんせい)した点も懸念される。Aiming at participation in the Japanese market, the EU is reportedly ready to demand Japan to improve nontariff barriers such as easing safety standards for medical equipment and a review of government procurement in the rail and transportation fields, among others.　ＥＵは日本市場への参入を狙って、医療機器などの安全基準の規制緩和や、鉄道・交通分野での政府調達の見直しなど、非関税障壁の改善を要求する構えという。===Negotiate tenaciouslyIt is basic in trade negotiations to expand the sphere of free trade, by seeking points of compromise while protecting certain products or industries. Japan should engage in the negotiations patiently, while considering the removal or improvement of nontariff barriers as much as possible.　通商交渉は、互いに守るべきものを守りながら接点を探り、自由貿易を拡大することが基本だ。日本は非関税障壁の改善を検討し、粘り強く交渉すべきだ。A major reason behind the EU decision to start EPA negotiations is that Japan has begun preliminary talks toward possible participation in negotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership framework, a pan-Pacific EPA led by the United States. We believe the EU, which is not participating in the TPP talks, has a strong interest in the moves of Japan and the United States.　ＥＵが日本との交渉に踏み出す背景には、日本が米国の主導する環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）への参加に向けて関係国と協議に入ったことがある。ＴＰＰに含まれないＥＵには、日米の動きに強い関心があるのだろう。In such a situation, Japan should pursue a more strategic move to grab the EU's attention by participating in the TPP negotiations as early as possible to gain a position of strength in the EPA talks. 　だからこそ、日本はＴＰＰに早期に参加することでＥＵを揺さぶり、通商交渉の主導権を握る戦略的な取り組みを進めるべきだ。As it is quite important to provide momentum to the nation's economic growth with the expansion of free trade, Japan must promote a positive trade policy.　自由貿易の拡大で、日本の成長に弾みを付けることが重要だ。日本は積極的な通商政策を推進しなければならない。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 7, 2012)（2012年12月7日01時32分  読売新聞）

財政再建　借金大国からの脱却目指せ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 7, 2012)Parties must confront nation's debt dependence財政再建　借金大国からの脱却目指せ（12月6日付・読売社説）What can be done to rebuild the nation's finances, which are the worst among advanced nations? Financial reconstruction is an issue that will heavily influence Japan's future.　先進国で最悪の財政をどう立て直すか。日本の将来を大きく左右する問題だ。However, there has not been very much debate on the issue in the campaigning for the Dec. 16 general election. Parties must show their resolve in dealing with this problem.しかし、衆院選では、議論が深まっていない。各党は、財政再建に向けた覚悟を示す必要がある。Japan's finances are facing a critical situation. Tax revenues have been continuing to decrease due to the prolonged economic downturn following the bursting of the bubble economy in the 1990s. At the same time, welfare costs have ballooned due to the rapid aging of the population, and successive economic stimulus packages have swelled expenditures.　日本の財政は危機的状況だ。１９９０年代以降、バブル崩壊後の不況で税収は減り続けている。一方、急速な高齢化によって社会保障費が増大し、度重なる景気対策で歳出が膨張した。Annual government bond issuance to fill the gap between tax revenues and expenditures has been in the 50 trillion yen range in recent years. About half of the 90 trillion yen general account budget for fiscal 2012 was procured from the issuance of bonds. The nation's dependence on borrowing is serious.　税収と歳出のギャップを埋めるため、政府はここ数年、年間５０兆円規模の国債を発行している。２０１２年度も一般会計の総額９０兆円のうち、半分を占めるという深刻な借金財政に陥った。It is appalling that the issuance of new bonds has exceeded tax revenues for three years in a row. If today's excessively low interest rates begin climbing upward, the burden of interest payments will increase significantly, making it even more difficult for the government to rebuild its finances.　新たな借金が３年連続で税収を上回る現状は、尋常ではない。現在の超低金利が上昇に転じれば、国債の利払いが一気に増大し、財政再建は一段と困難になろう。===Show path to rebuild financesIn their campaign platforms, the Democratic Party of Japan and the Liberal Democratic Party both have stated a goal of achieving a surplus in the primary balance by fiscal 2020 so that the government could secure policy-related expenses mainly from tax revenues without issuing new bonds. However, both parties have failed to show concrete methods on how to achieve the goal.　民主、自民両党は政権公約で、新規の借金をせずに政策的経費を税収などでまかなえるよう、基礎的な財政収支を２０年度までに黒字化する目標を掲げている。だが、その道筋は示されていない。The first step toward sound public finances is to steadily implement the two-stage consumption tax hike scheduled to take place in April 2014 and October 2015 and to move forward the integrated reform of the social security and tax systems. Even after the consumption tax rate is raised to 10 percent, the government is expected to face an uphill battle to rebuild the nation's finances.　財政健全化の第一歩は、１４年４月と１５年１０月に予定される消費税率の２段階引き上げを確実に実施し、社会保障・税一体改革を進めることだ。ただし、消費税率が１０％になっても、財政再建の道のりは依然として厳しい。However, such parties as Nippon Mirai no To (Tomorrow Party of Japan), the Japanese Communist Party and Your Party have taken positions against the consumption tax hike, claiming that the government should trim wasteful budget spending first. We wonder how they would cover the surge of welfare costs without a tax hike.　ところが、日本未来の党、共産党、みんなの党などは反増税を掲げ、「消費増税の前に予算のムダを減らすべきだ」と主張する。膨らむ社会保障費を増税なしで、どうカバーしようというのか。There is no room for the government to fall deeper into debt by further relying on government bonds, and ask future generations to clean up the mess. It is difficult to call them responsible parties as long as they tout overly optimistic future prospects that have no foundation and evade taking necessary measures that would be painful.　国債に依存して借金を重ね、将来世代に負担をつけ回す余裕はない。根拠のない甘い見通しを掲げ、痛みから逃げるだけでは、責任政党とは言えない。===Ishin's problematic proposalThere are also problems in the aim of Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party) to make the consumption tax a local tax after raising its rate to 11 percent.　消費税率を１１％に引き上げて地方税化するという日本維新の会の主張にも問題が多い。Will it ever be possible for local governments to collect consumption tax by themselves without the help of the central government, and distribute the money properly? It is also doubtful the central government would be able to find other revenue sources to cover social security costs.　国を介さず地方が独自に消費税を徴収して配分したり、社会保障は国が別財源で手当てしたりすることが可能だろうか。Looking at parties' campaign platforms, we have to say their efforts on spending cuts are far from sufficient. The platforms include plans to support farming and implement public works projects, measures that could result in recklessly handing out taxpayers' money. The LDP has pledged to cut personnel expenses of government officials and to review livelihood protection allowances, but their effect on spending cuts will be small.　歳出削減についても、各党の公約は踏み込み不足だ。ばらまき色の強い農業支援や公共事業などが並ぶ。自民党は公務員人件費削減や生活保護見直しを掲げているが、歳出削減の規模は小さい。It will be important for the government to preferentially allocate limited budget resources to economic fields expected to grow in the near future, as this may result in increased tax revenues. We urge parties to more fully debate budgetary reforms that challenge the vested interests of the people concerned.　限られた予算を将来の税収増につながる成長分野に重点的に振り向けることが重要だ。各党は既得権に切り込む予算改革をもっと議論すべきである。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 6, 2012)（2012年12月6日01時09分  読売新聞）

衆院選公示　確かな日本の針路見据えたい

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 6, 2012)Voters--pick the party that offers solid course for Japan衆院選公示　確かな日本の針路見据えたい（12月5日付・読売社説）　◆無責任な主張に惑わされぬよう◆Can Japan maintain its national strength, or will it stray down a course of decline? In the upcoming House of Representatives election, voters will make an extremely important choice that will decide the future course of Japan.　国力を維持していけるのか、それとも衰退の道をたどるのか。日本の針路を決める上で、極めて重要な選択である。Official campaigning has started for the 46th lower house election. It is an unusual election in that it is being contested by 12 political parties, including the two major ones--the Democratic Party of Japan and the Liberal Democratic Party.　第４６回衆院選が公示された。民主、自民の２大政党をはじめ１２の政党が乱立して争う異例の選挙戦となった。In his first stump speech, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda said the question in this election is "whether we move forward or return to old politics." He stressed that his party aims to become the largest party in the lower house. LDP President Shinzo Abe, meanwhile, said, "Together with New Komeito, the LDP will definitely win a majority and take back power." All eyes are on whether the DPJ or the LDP will end up holding the tiller of government.　第一声で野田首相は「前に進むか、昔に戻るか」と訴え、第１党を目指すとしている。自民党の安倍総裁は「断固として自民党、公明党で過半数を獲得し、政権奪還を目指す」と語った。どちらが政権を担うかが、最大の焦点だ。===3rd force may affect new govt　◆第３極も新政権に影響◆If Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party), Nippon Mirai no To (Tomorrow Party of Japan) and Your Party, which aim to become a third major force to rival the DPJ and the LDP, grow stronger, they could affect the framework of the new administration.　民主、自民両党に対抗して「第３極」を目指す日本維新の会、日本未来の党、みんなの党の勢力伸長は、新政権の枠組みに影響する。While Abe scotched suggestions his party might form a coalition government with the DPJ, he said cooperation with Ishin no Kai remains an option.　安倍氏は、民主党との連立政権を否定する一方、維新の会との連携は選択肢の一つだと述べた。Even if the LDP becomes the largest party in the lower chamber, it still does not have a majority in the House of Councillors--even with the help of Komeito and Ishin no Kai. Consequently, the Diet likely will remain divided until the upper house election in summer next year.　衆院で自民党が第１党になった場合でも、参院の議席は公明党や維新の会と合わせても過半数には届かない。With elections being what they are, it is natural for political parties to compete with each other. However, they will also need to maneuver with one eye on the possibility of forming a coalition or partial alliance after the election. Parties are being tested on how they will break away from "politics characterized by indecision."　来夏の参院選まで、衆参のねじれが続く公算が大きい。　選挙である以上、各党が競い合うのは当然だが、選挙後の連立や部分連合も考慮に入れた対応も必要だ。「決められない政治」からどう脱却するかが問われている。Cooperation between the DPJ, the LDP and Komeito is indispensable for steadily carrying out integrated reform of the social security and tax systems, the main pillar of which is to raise the consumption tax rate.　民自公３党の協力は、消費税率の引き上げを柱とする社会保障と税の一体改革を今後、着実に実行していくうえで欠かせない。The consumption tax increase is necessary for rebuilding state finances, which are teetering on the brink, and maintaining the social security system. It was only recently that the national council for revamping the social security system was launched under the initiative of the three parties. The council's discussions must be accelerated further.　消費増税は、危機に瀕(ひん)する財政を再建し、社会保障制度を維持するために必要だ。３党の主導により社会保障制度改革国民会議が発足したばかりである。議論をさらに加速させなければならない。Fearing for their political survival, many former lower house members who bolted from the DPJ joined new parties and oppose the tax increase. If they insist on taking this stance, they should present realistic steps for securing the resources needed to fund social security and reconstructing public finances.　民主党を離党した前衆院議員たちの多くは、生き残りを図るために新党に移り、「反増税」を唱えている。それなら、社会保障財源の確保と、財政再建への現実的な具体策を示すべきだ。Simply insisting they will "cut waste in administration" is too simplistic.　「行政のムダを削減する」と唱えるだけでは粗雑に過ぎる。===Zero nuclear option irresponsibleParties are also at odds over policies on nuclear power and energy.　原発・エネルギー政策でも各党の主張の対立が目立つ。Although the DPJ and the LDP will both allow nuclear reactors to be reactivated after confirmation they are safe to operate, the LDP said it will not form a conclusion on the future of nuclear power plants right away.　民主、自民両党は安全性が確認された原発の再稼働を認める点では一致するものの、自民党は原発の将来像に早急には結論を出さないとしている。　◆「脱原発」の安売りでは◆The DPJ, on the other hand, aims to end the nation's reliance on nuclear power generation in the 2030s. Mirai no To calls for abolishing nuclear generation in 10 years, while Your Party says it will end nuclear reliance in the 2020s. The Japanese Communist Party and the Social Democratic Party champion ending nuclear generation immediately.　一方で、民主党は２０３０年代の原発稼働ゼロを目指す。未来の党は１０年以内に全原発廃炉、みんなの党は２０年代の原発ゼロを掲げている。共産、社民両党は即時ゼロという立場だ。It is irresponsible to call for ending the use of nuclear power. Parties that trumpet this stance must explain in detail how they would ensure a stable power supply and deal with the inevitable negative impacts on the economy, employment and household spending, and the drain of Japan's nuclear engineers. Without doing so, their arguments will not be compelling to voters.　「原発ゼロ」は無責任である。電力の安定供給、経済・雇用や家計への打撃、原子力関連技術者の流出など様々な懸念について、具体的な解決策を示さないようでは、説得力を持たない。Taking the "zero nuclear" option will erode Japan's strength, and clearly make it more difficult to provide full social security programs and guarantee national security.　国力をそぐ原発ゼロでは、社会保障の充実も、安全保障の確保も難しくなるのは明らかだ。The most important task right now is economic revitalization. Conquering deflation and the ultra-strong yen will be essential for achieving an economic recovery.　何より重要なのは、経済再生である。デフレ・超円高を克服し、景気を回復することが急務だ。The LDP has laid out an inflation target of 2 percent, and plans to implement bold monetary easing to achieve this goal. We applaud this policy.　自民党が、「明確な物価目標２％」を設定し、その達成に向けて大胆な金融緩和を行う考えを打ち出したのは評価できる。Many parties, including the DPJ and the LDP, list economic growth as one of their campaign pledges. But they have failed to present a clear vision for achieving it.　民主、自民など多くの党が高い経済成長の達成を公約しているが、道筋は不透明だ。It is important that voters scrutinize the parties' campaign platforms to find out which party offers effective economic stimulus and monetary policies.　どの党が有効な景気対策、金融政策を掲げているか、中身を見極めることが大切である。The diplomatic and security environments surrounding Japan have been going through dramatic changes.　日本を取り巻く外交・安全保障の環境は変貌を遂げつつある。The DPJ-led administration's ham-fisted handling of the planned relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station badly strained the Japan-U.S. alliance. Chinese marine surveillance ships have regularly intruded into Japanese territorial waters around the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, and North Korea announced it is preparing to test-launch a ballistic missile. 　米軍普天間飛行場の移設問題を巡る民主党政権の失政で、日米同盟が大きく揺らいだ。沖縄・尖閣諸島周辺海域では中国公船の領海侵入が相次ぎ、北朝鮮は弾道ミサイルの発射を予告している。The DPJ, the LDP and Ishin no Kai have quite rightly called for bolstering and deepening the Japan-U.S. alliance. Improving relations with Washington will be necessary also as a check against China, which has been expanding its military and economic presence. Allowing Japan to exercise its right to collective self-defense could be an effective tool for that purpose.　民主、自民、維新の会などが日米同盟の強化・深化を掲げているのは当然である。軍事、経済両面で膨張する中国をけん制するためにも、米国との関係改善が必要だ。集団的自衛権の行使を認めることは有力な手段となろう。

北ミサイル予告　発射阻止へ国際連携の強化を

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 5, 2012)Multilateral cooperation needed to stop missile launch北ミサイル予告　発射阻止へ国際連携の強化を（12月4日付・読売社説）North Korea recently announced it would launch a long-range ballistic missile between Monday and Dec. 22 under the guise of sending a "satellite" into orbit.　北朝鮮が「人工衛星打ち上げ」と称して、長距離弾道ミサイルを１０日から２２日の間に発射すると予告した。However hard Pyongyang insists that its plan is to launch a satellite for peaceful purposes, the mechanism used to launch a missile is the same as that used to launch a satellite. It is a clear violation of a U.N. Security Council resolution prohibiting North Korea from conducting nuclear tests and "any launch using ballistic missile technology."　いくら平和目的の衛星打ち上げと強弁しようとも、原理は弾道ミサイル発射と変わらない。「核実験や、弾道ミサイルの技術を使ったいかなる発射も」禁じた国連安全保障理事会の決議への違反は明らかである。This is a serious provocation to the international community.　国際社会への重大な挑戦だ。After North Korea launched its last missile in April, the Security Council adopted a presidential statement expressing the council's "determination to take action accordingly" if the country launched another missile or conducted a nuclear test.　前回４月の発射後、安保理は議長声明を採択し、北朝鮮が新たな発射や核実験を行えば、「相応の行動をとる決意」を表明した。We urge the Security Council to take decisive action over North Korea's reckless plan, which openly ignores the warnings of the international community.　警告を公然と無視する暴挙に安保理は敢然と対処すべきだ。Pyongyang said the new missile launch is being conducted on the instructions of Kim Jong Il, who died in December 2011.　北朝鮮は今回の発射を、昨年１２月に死去した金正日総書記の「遺訓」としている。===North Korea's intentionsThe missile launch is believed to be part of North Korea's program to strengthen the country's nuclear deterrence capability--initiated by Kim--through the development of nuclear programs, extending the range of ballistic missiles and improving their accuracy. We assume the administration of Kim Jong Un, Kim Jong Il's successor, also is trying to cement its authority.　核兵器開発と弾道ミサイルの射程延伸や精度向上によって、金総書記が推進した核抑止力の強化を図るのが目的だ。後継の金正恩体制が自らの求心力を高めたいとの計算もあろう。Japan's House of Representatives election and South Korea's presidential election will be held during the period the missile is scheduled to be launched. In recent months, U.S. President Barack Obama has been reelected and China's Xi Jinping took over the reins of the Communist Party.　北朝鮮が設定した発射予告期間は、日本の衆院選や韓国の大統領選と重なる。オバマ米大統領が再選を果たし、中国の習近平体制が発足した直後でもある。The fact that Pyongyang has timed the launch to coincide with a period when these nations face difficulty in coordinating policies against its actions indicates North Korea aims to learn how each country will react.　各国政府間の対北朝鮮政策を巡る調整が難しい時期を選んだところに、各国の出方を探ろうとする北朝鮮の意図がうかがえる。Although North Korea apparently is trying to undermine the international alliance against the country, the international community should not allow North Korea the slightest chance of success. Countries concerned, such as Japan, the United States, South Korea, China and Russia, should join hands to pressure North Korea to cancel the missile launch.　国際包囲網の無力化を狙う北朝鮮に隙を見せてはならない。日米韓や中露など関係国は連携し、発射阻止を強く迫るべきだ。North Korea says it has studied the reasons why the launch in April failed and has succeeded in improving the reliability of the missile it plans to launch this month. There is speculation that Iran and other countries have provided technological assistance.　今回の発射に際し北朝鮮は、４月の失敗の原因を分析し、「信頼性を高めた」としている。イランなどとの技術協力の可能性も取り沙汰されている。This suggests U.N. sanctions have not been implemented thoroughly and lack substance. The Security Council's sanctions on North Korea included an embargo on exports by other countries of materials related to nuclear weapons and missiles, as well as luxury goods. It also ordered suspicious cargo to be inspected.　核・ミサイル関連物資や贅沢(ぜいたく)品の禁輸と、疑わしい貨物の検査を実施するという安保理の制裁が徹底されず、実効性を欠いていることを示唆するものだろう。===Learn lessons from April launchChina especially has a heavy responsibility for North Korea's actions, as a permanent member of the Security Council, a neighbor and its largest trading partner.　特に北朝鮮の最大の貿易相手国で国境を接する中国は安保理常任理事国として重い責任がある。It was appropriate for the Japanese government to have taken concrete measures against the missile launch immediately after North Korea's announcement.　北朝鮮の発射予告に、日本政府が直ちに具体的な対応策をまとめたのは当然である。Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has decided to postpone intergovernment talks with North Korea, which were scheduled to begin Wednesday. Defense Minister Satoshi Morimoto has ordered Self-Defense Forces to prepare its missile defense system to shoot down the North Korean missile. The government plans to host a meeting of the nation's Security Council this week and issue an order to destroy the missile if it strays over Japanese territory.　野田首相は５日からの北朝鮮との政府間協議の延期を決め、森本防衛相は、ミサイル防衛システムによる迎撃態勢の準備へ「破壊措置準備命令」を自衛隊に発令した。週内には安全保障会議を開き、破壊措置命令を出す予定だ。When Pyongyang launched its missile in April, the government displayed remarkable confusion in confirming information on the launch. We urge the government to learn from this bitter lesson and make a wholehearted effort to pass along information collected by the early warning system.　４月の発射の際は、情報確認を巡る政府の混乱が目立った。その教訓を生かし、早期警戒情報の周知に万全を期してもらいたい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 4, 2012)（2012年12月4日01時43分  読売新聞）

トンネル崩落　老朽建造物の総点検が急務だ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 4, 2012)Aging tunnels, expressways need to be checkedトンネル崩落　老朽建造物の総点検が急務だ（12月3日付・読売社説）A terrible accident occurred on a major expressway Sunday.　日曜の高速道路で大惨事が起きた。A large section of the ceiling collapsed inside the Sasago Tunnel of the Chuo Expressway in Yamanashi Prefecture, burying several vehicles and causing some of them to catch fire.　中央自動車道の笹子トンネル（山梨県）で大規模な崩落が発生し、車が次々と下敷きになった。車両火災も引き起こした。Eight-centimeter-thick concrete panels reportedly fell suddenly from the ceiling over a length of 110 meters. Several bodies were found in the buried vehicles. Some people escaped from the tunnel by themselves but suffered burns and other injuries.　厚さ８センチほどのコンクリート製の天井板が突然、１１０メートルにわたって崩れ落ちたという。下敷きになった車内からは、複数の遺体が見つかった。自力で逃げ出した人たちも、やけどなどを負った。"The ceiling collapsed like an avalanche," one witness said. The terrifying tunnel accident is simply chilling.　「雪崩のように崩れてきた」と語る人もいた。トンネル事故の恐ろしさに慄然とする。Some people possibly remain trapped under the rubble. We hope the police and firefighters will do everything they can to rescue any survivors, while taking care not to disturb any unstable slabs that could also come down.　何人かがトンネル内に取り残されている可能性もある。警察と消防は二次災害に留意しつつ、救出に全力を挙げてもらいたい。The Chuo Expressway, like the Tomei Expressway, is a major artery linking the Tokyo metropolitan area with the Kansai region. The 4.7-kilometer Sasago Tunnel opened to traffic in 1977.　中央道は、東名高速と並び、首都圏と関西圏を結ぶ大動脈だ。全長４・７キロの笹子トンネルは１９７７年に開通した。===Tunnel passed checksCentral Nippon Expressway Co., the operator of the Chuo Expressway, said it conducted visual and other inspections inside the tunnel in September, but found nothing wrong with the panels that hang from the upper part of the tunnel to permit ventilation.　管理する中日本高速道路が９月に目視などの点検を行ったが、換気装置として、トンネル上部からつり下げられている天井板に異常は見つからなかったという。Had the structure deteriorated due to age? The police and the Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry must thoroughly pinpoint the cause of the collapse. How maintenance and checkups should be conducted also needs to be examined.　経年劣化はなかったのか。警察と国土交通省は崩落原因を徹底的に解明する必要がある。保守・点検のあり方の検証も不可欠だ。More than 10 tunnels with similar structures to the Sasago Tunnel have been built across the country. These tunnels must be urgently inspected.　同じ構造のトンネルは全国の高速道路に１０か所以上ある。点検を急がねばならない。After 20 people were killed in the 1996 collapse of the Toyohama Tunnel in Hokkaido, all tunnels across Japan were checked. Couldn't lessons from this tragedy have been used more effectively?　２０人が犠牲になった９６年の北海道・豊浜トンネル崩落事故を契機に、全国のトンネルの一斉点検が行われた。その教訓は生かされなかったのだろうか。During the period of high economic growth that began in the 1970s, government spending on public works projects for expanding social infrastructure increased sharply.　高度経済成長期の７０年代以降、社会資本整備のための公共事業費が急増した。===Structures crumblingExpressways and other structures built during this period have aged considerably, and, experts say, some are becoming dangerous to use. One prime concern is that concrete in these structures is reaching the end of its fatigue life.　この時代に造られた高速道路などの建造物は現在、老朽化が目立ち、危険性が指摘されている。耐用年数を迎えているコンクリートの劣化は深刻だ。According to the infrastructure ministry, tunnels and elevated sections of the nation's expressways alone required repairs at about 555,000 locations in 2011. This is more than 10 times the 47,000 spots that needed repairs in 2005.　国交省によると、高速道路だけでも、補修を要するトンネルや高架橋などの損傷が、２０１１年に約５５万５０００か所で確認された。０５年の約４万７０００か所に比べ１０倍以上にも増えている。From the viewpoint of preparing for a major earthquake as part of disaster-prevention measures, aged structures must be quickly given comprehensive inspections.　大地震に備える防災上の観点からも、まずは老朽建造物の総点検が急務である。With the government in dire fiscal straits, there are strong, persistent calls for cutting back on public works spending. Indeed, wasteful expenditures must be reined in.　厳しい財政事情の中、公共事業費の削減を求める声は根強い。確かに、野放図な投資は抑制する必要があるだろう。But dangerous structures, if left as they are, threaten the safety of the public. Budgets should be allocated preferentially for repairing crumbling facilities.　だが、危険な建造物を放置すれば、国民生活の安全が脅かされる。老朽施設の改修には、優先的に予算を投じるべきだ。This will be a major issue for the new government that comes to power following the Dec. 16 House of Representatives election.　衆院選後の新政権が取り組むべき重要な課題である。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 3, 2012)（2012年12月3日01時30分  読売新聞）

社会保障会議　制度の安定に負担を求めよ

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 3, 2012)Heavier burdens inevitable for sustainable social security社会保障会議　制度の安定に負担を求めよ（12月2日付・読売社説）A newly launched expert council on the future of the nation's social security system will need to hold exhaustive discussions on ways to ensure people can live with peace of mind.　国民生活の安心を確保するために、議論を尽くさねばならない。The national council for reform of the social security system has been inaugurated to deliberate the future shape of social security.　今後の社会保障のあり方を検討する社会保障制度改革国民会議がスタートした。The head of the council, Keio University President Atsushi Seike, said at its first meeting Friday he hopes the council will develop "logical discussions as a group of experts."会長の清家篤・慶応義塾長は「専門家として論理的な議論をしたい」と強調した。It is crucial that the 15-member council, whose deadline for presenting its conclusions is set by law for August next year, hammer out measures for transforming the existing social security system--which has been fraying because of Japan's rapidly aging population coupled with a low birthrate--into a solid, sustainable framework.　来年８月の設置期限までに、少子高齢化でほころびが目立つ制度を持続可能な仕組みにする方策を打ち出すことが重要である。While benefit payments have snowballed, premiums and tax revenues for funding these expenses have been floundering. The disruption in the balance between benefit payments and the burden on the public to finance the system is leading it to the precipice. 　膨らみ続ける社会保障給付費に対し、財源の社会保険料や税収は低迷している。給付と負担のバランスが崩れていることが、制度の危機につながっている。Government debts to make up for the revenue shortfall have ballooned.不足分を補う国の借金は増える一方だ。===Do away with inequitiesThe new council plans to ensure necessary social security services can be provided while "curbing the increasing financial burden on the people."　国民会議は「国民負担の増大を抑制しつつ」必要なサービスを確保する方針だ。However, it would be all but impossible to maintain the system without asking the public to fairly shoulder a burden commensurate with their income level. だが、国民に公平で相応の負担を求めなくては、制度は維持できまい。People aged 70 to 74 pay 10 percent of their medical fees from their own pocket, although the rate set by law is 20 percent. The medical bill burden for people in this age bracket is substantially lower than that of people younger or older than them. This has generated a sense of inequality. We think the supposedly provisional measure should be quickly removed so people aged 70 to 74 pay 20 percent of their medical bills. 　例えば７０～７４歳の医療費の窓口負担率は、法定では２割なのに、１割に抑えられている。前後の年代に比べて自己負担が軽く、不公平が生じている。すみやかに２割負担に引き上げるべきである。Social security benefits will inevitably be curbed. In addition, pension benefits must be lowered in accordance with the falling wage levels of working generations currently paying pension premiums. 　給付の抑制も避けられない。年金保険料を納める現役世代の賃金水準の低下に合わせ、年金給付を引き下げる必要がある。Steps to boost the low birthrate also are urgently needed. 　少子化対策も急務だ。As a percentage of gross domestic product, Japanese government spending on child care support is less than one-third that of the expenditures of nations such as France and Sweden, which have turned around their low birthrates. Effective social security measures, including expanding day care services for children, and ways to secure revenue, must be worked out.　フランス、スウェーデンなど少子化を改善させた国々に比べ、日本の子育て支援支出は国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）比で３分の１に満たない。保育サービスの拡充など効果的な政策や、財源を確保する方策を追求すべきだ。The council will discuss four main issues: medical services, nursing care services, pensions and ways of reversing the low birthrate. Yet another issue--employment--must not be left unaddressed.　国民会議の検討項目は医療、介護、年金、少子化の４分野だが、雇用対策も忘れてはならない。===3-party cooperation vitalThe council is expected to include in its agenda how to improve the working conditions of nonregular employees who are not covered by social security insurance plans despite earning low wages.低賃金のうえ、社会保険が適用されない非正規雇用の待遇改善などが検討課題になろう。To translate the council's conclusions into concrete policies, cooperation between the Democratic party of Japan, the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito will be vital.　国民会議の結論を得て、具体的な政策に結び付けるためには、民主、自民、公明３党の協力体制が欠かせない。The DPJ has been arguing for the creation of a guaranteed minimum pension system and abolition of the special medical care service arrangements for people 75 or older. Both DPJ goals are unrealistic and opposed by the LDP and Komeito.　民主党は、最低保障年金の創設や後期高齢者医療制度の廃止を主張しているが、現実味に乏しく、自公両党は反対している。After the Dec. 16 House of Representatives election, the three parties, in parallel with discussions by the national council, must hold consultations and find solutions to these issues. 衆院選後、国民会議と並行して政党間協議を行い、決着するべきだ。Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party), for its part, wants to change the pay-as-you-go pension system, under which benefits for current pensioners are funded by premiums paid by workers, into a funded pension system under which premiums paid by workers fund the pension they receive after retirement.　日本維新の会は現在の賦課方式の年金制度を積み立て方式に改めると主張し、Another new party, Nippon Mirai no To (Japan future party), has trumpeted the creation of a minimum pension guarantee system. 日本未来の党は最低保障年金の創設を訴えている。The feasibility of these arguments is questionable. Nevertheless, these arguments could affect deliberations by the council, depending on the results of the lower house election. 　実現性は疑問だが、衆院選の結果次第では、国民会議に影響を与える可能性もある。Every party must be well aware of the importance of stably maintaining the nation's social security system.　どの政党も、社会保障制度を安定させながら維持していくことの重要性を認識すべきだ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 2, 2012)（2012年12月2日01時04分  読売新聞）

１１党の討論会　政策実現性で競うべき党首力

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 2, 2012)Party leaders should compete on strength of feasible policies１１党の討論会　政策実現性で競うべき党首力（12月1日付・読売社説）Sitting in a row, 11 leaders of political parties made various assertions on issues. The scene reflected the disarray in the nation's politics. 　１１人もの党首がずらりと並び、それぞれ主張し合う姿は、混迷する政治状況を映し出しているかのようだ。Organized by the Japan National Press Club, a debate was held Friday among the party leaders. It could hardly be said that they always responded directly to each others' arguments, but at least each party's basic stance on key issues became clear. 　日本記者クラブの主催で党首討論会が開かれた。議論が十分かみあったとは言えないが、重要な課題に対する各党の基本姿勢は明確になった。Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda stressed that his Democratic Party of Japan will make all-out efforts to abandon nuclear energy in the 2030s. As if competing over the speed at which they would achieve zero nuclear reliance, other party leaders presented different goals, with one calling for the immediate abandonment of nuclear power and another referring to an exit from nuclear power in 10 years or so. 　エネルギー・原発問題については、野田首相が２０３０年代に「原発稼働ゼロ」を目指して政策を総動員する方針を強調した。他の党首から「即時」「１０年後をめど」など、脱原発までのスピードを競うような主張も相次いだ。However, we think such assertions by political parties, which deal with state affairs, are irresponsible as long as they are unable to show clear road maps for achieving zero reliance, by clearly anticipating such factors as economic variables and advances in alternative energy technology. 　しかし、代替エネルギー技術の進歩や経済状況の変化まで見越して、「ゼロ」への道筋を明確に出来ない以上、国政を担う政党として無責任に過ぎよう。Liberal Democratic Party President Shinzo Abe raised the concern that seeking denuclearization could have a negative impact on the nation's economy and employment and discourage engineers from pursuing careers in the field of nuclear energy. Therefore, he said, "Zero reliance shouldn't be called for lightly." This view is reasonable. 　自民党の安倍総裁は、原発ゼロを唱えることで経済・雇用へ悪影響が及び、原子力関係の技術者も育たなくなる、と懸念を示した。「軽々にゼロと言うべきではない」との指摘はもっともである。Meanwhile, Shintaro Ishihara, the leader of Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party), played down calls for nuclear zero dependence as "a sort of desire" and expressed his intention to review his party's election pledge calling for nuclear power to be phased out by the 2030s. We think this praiseworthy.　日本維新の会の石原代表が脱原発を「一種の願望」と一蹴し、公約の「３０年代までにフェードアウト」という記述を見直す考えを表明したことも評価できる。===Significance of sales tax hikesAs for increases in the consumption tax rate, Noda said, "Without securing a stable revenue source, we can't provide firm reassurances to people regarding receiving pension benefits and medical and nursing care."　消費税率引き上げに関し、野田首相は「安定財源を確保せずに年金、医療、介護で揺るぎのない安心を作ることはできない」と語った。Three major parties--the DPJ, the LDP and New Komeito--should explain to the people once again the significance of the integrated reform of social security and tax systems to win public understanding. 民主、自民、公明３党は社会保障・税一体改革の意義を改めて説明し、理解を求めるべきだ。Nippon Mirai no To (Japan future party), which opposes consumption tax hikes, pledges to thoroughly eliminate wasteful spending before raising the sales tax. But it is obvious that such a policy would only lead the nation's already teetering finances to collapse. 　消費増税に反対する日本未来の党は「消費増税の前に、徹底してムダを削除する」と訴えているが、それでは危機的な財政を破綻に追いやるのは明らかだろう。Opposing tax increases without offering any specific alternatives to raise funds is nothing but posturing to please the public.　増税に反対するだけで、何ら現実的な財源策を示さないのは大衆迎合というしかない。===Parties at odds over TPPAs for the U.S.-led Trans-Pacific Partnership trade and economic pact, Yoshimi Watanabe, leader of Your Party, which supports Japan's participation in the TPP talks, said, "The TPP multilateral framework, which excludes China, has strategic meaning to create a balance of power."　米国主導の環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）について、交渉参加を掲げるみんなの党の渡辺代表は「中国を除外したＴＰＰの枠組みには、多角的な勢力均衡体系を作って行こうという、戦略的意味合いがある」と指摘した。This was apparent criticism of the LDP's taking a cautious stance on TPP participation out of consideration for relations with China. 　対中戦略を強調して、参加に慎重な自民党を批判したものだ。During the debate, Abe only said, "We'd like to handle [this issue] with improved negotiating power while scrutinizing whether we can overcome the hurdle of eliminating tariffs without exception." His remarks on the TPP issue left something to be desired. 　安倍氏が、「聖域なき関税撤廃を突破できるか吟味しながら、交渉力を磨いて対応したい」と言うにとどめたのは物足りない。The official campaign for the House of Representatives election kicks off Tuesday. The party heads should exercise their leadership by addressing voters' concerns seriously and presenting convincing policy measures rather than merely striving to raise the profile of their parties.　衆院選は４日、公示される。党首力は、パフォーマンスではなく、有権者の疑問に正面から向き合い、説得力のある政策を提示することにこそ発揮すべきである。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Dec. 1, 2012)（2012年12月1日01時21分  読売新聞）

維新の会公約　二枚看板だけの戦いにするな

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Dec. 1, 2012)Ishin no Kai must offer more than Ishihara, Hashimoto names維新の会公約　二枚看板だけの戦いにするな（11月30日付・読売社説）There can be no denying that the campaign pledges announced Thursday by Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party) for the upcoming general election are half-baked and seemingly hastily prepared.　政策が生煮えで、急ごしらえであることは否めない。We fear the newly formed party is not ready to achieve its professed goal of taking the reins of government.これで国政を担えるのだろうか。In a news conference the same day, party leader Shintaro Ishihara stated his party "will dismantle the rigid administrative control of the central government bureaucrats," declaring the party will drastically review the nation's state of being.　日本維新の会が衆院選政権公約を発表した。　石原慎太郎代表は、記者会見で「硬直した中央官僚の支配を壊す」と述べ、国のあり方を抜本的に見直すことを唱えた。The Democratic Party of Japan too once tooted the horn of "rooting out the vested interests of Kasumigaseki," Tokyo's government district, but the DPJ has failed to realize many of its policy pledges. We cannot help but feel Ishin no Kai is making the same flimsy but treacherous move, which gained the DPJ much publicity but amounted to little.　かつて民主党も「霞が関の既得権益を一掃する」と大言壮語したものの、多くの公約を実現できなかった。維新の会にも、似たような危うさを感じざるを得ない。Voters should not be expected to evaluate Ishin no Kai simply through the personal characteristics of Ishihara and the party's acting leader Toru Hashimoto.　石原、橋下徹両氏の個性だけでは有権者は判断できない。We urge the party to develop its current platform into a well-thought-out package of persuasive, feasible policies.やはり、説得力のある実行可能な政策に練り上げていく必要がある。===Short on specificsThe party's platform called the pitiful state of government finances "unsustainable," though when it came to how to achieve fiscal rehabilitation, the party equivocated.　公約は、借金依存の財政について「維持不可能」と断定した。With social security expenses swelling by 1 trillion yen per year, new revenue sources are urgently needed, but Ishin no Kai failed to mention anything more concrete than creating a special inheritance tax to fund pension payments. Furthermore, the party said the consumption tax--the bulwark that shores up the social security system--should be turned over to full local control.　しかし、財政再建を実現する道筋は不透明である。年に１兆円ずつ増える社会保障費についても新たな財源は、年金目的の特別相続税の新設などとあるだけだ。しかも、社会保障を支えてきた消費税は地方税化するという。Ishin no Kai's campaign pledges do not present effective remedies for the nation's challenges, such as the fiscal crisis and constructing a sustainable pension and health-care systems.　公約を読む限りでは、財政危機への対応や、持続可能な年金、医療制度の構築について、有効な処方箋を示したとは言えない。Meanwhile, the party seems to be vacillating on its nuclear energy policy.　原発政策は揺れているように見える。Its platform sets a goal of "breaking the nation's dependence on nuclear power generation," and says existing nuclear plants would "fade out by the 2030s as a result," but the party failed here as well to get specific.「脱原発依存」を掲げ、既存の原発は「結果として、２０３０年代までにフェードアウトする」と言及したが、曖昧だ。It is also problematic that Ishin no Kai's platform does not explain how to handle the issue of reactivating the nation's mostly idle nuclear reactors. If the party supports continuing to use nuclear power for at least the time being, it should say so in its platform.　原発の再稼働問題への対応を明記していないことも問題である。当面、原発を活用するのなら、公約にそう書き込むべきだ。Although the party deserves praise for supporting revisions to the Constitution, we question the advisability of the changes it called for, such as electing the prime minister by popular vote, something we believe would likely devolve into a mere popularity contest, and abolishing the House of Councillors, a goal that would be extremely difficult to achieve.　憲法改正を打ち出したのは結構だが、人気投票に陥りがちな「首相公選制」や、極めて難しい「参院廃止」などを具体例として挙げたのは理解に苦しむ。===Clarify prioritiesThe unintelligibility of Ishin no Kai's election pledges when seen as a whole is mainly because it juxtaposes policies that need to be addressed immediately with medium- and long-term tasks. The party needs to clarify which of its plans will get the highest priority.　全体として、公約が分かりにくいのは、すぐに着手する政策と、中長期の課題を一律に並べているからだ。実現の優先順位を明確にしてもらいたい。Nevertheless, the party is correctly pledging to support Japan's participation in talks over the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact, as this would allow the growth potential of the economies of Asia to be tapped. Along with this, it is reasonable that the party wants to reform the agricultural sector to enhance the international competitiveness of Japan's farm produce.　一方、アジアの発展を取り込むための環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）について「交渉参加」を掲げたのは評価できる。これに備えて農業にメスを入れ、競争力を高めようとする姿勢も妥当である。The party's platform, for instance, rightly points out the need to limit the number of beneficiaries of the income guarantee system for individual farmers, which was created by the DPJ administration, so that it supports only full-time farm households. We also agree with its call to carry out a drastic review of the nation's agricultural cooperatives.　例えば、民主党政権が創設した戸別所得補償を専業農家に限定することや、農協組織の大幅見直しを目指すという。On diplomatic and security policy, the party has incorporated into its platform the goal of freeing the nation to exercise its right to collective self-defense.　外交・安保政策では、集団的自衛権の行使を盛り込んだ。Enabling our country to exercise this right would help deepen the alliance with the United States, the core of Japan's foreign policy.これは外交の基軸である日米同盟の深化に欠かせない。We strongly hope Ishin no Kai will do its best to help realize this.ぜひ実現を図ってもらいたい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Nov. 30, 2012)（2012年11月30日01時28分  読売新聞）

日本未来の党　「卒原発」には国政を託せない

The Yomiuri Shimbun (Nov. 30, 2012)Voters must warily scrutinize new parties' vague slogans日本未来の党　「卒原発」には国政を託せない（11月29日付・読売社説）How could we entrust Japan's future to a political party that touts a slogan of "ending the use of nuclear power plants," which would likely weaken the nation if adopted?　国力を衰退させる「脱原発」を政治目標に掲げる政党に、日本の未来を託せるだろうか。Nippon Mirai no To (Japan future party) celebrated its inauguration Wednesday, with Shiga Gov. Yukiko Kada being chosen as the party leader. Kada said her party will draw up a "program to achieve a nuclear-free society," seeking to gradually abolish all nuclear power plants. Kada added that she wants to achieve the goal within 10 years.　日本未来の党が、正式に発足した。代表に就任した嘉田由紀子滋賀県知事は「卒原発プログラム」を作成し、徐々に原発を減らして１０年後をめどに原発ゼロにする意向を示した。The party's slogans are merely vague concepts, listing phrases such as "stopping reliance on tax hikes," "taking the policy initiative away from bureaucrats" and "diplomacy with dignity." The party has yet to prepare concrete measures, even on important topics such as the economy, social security and national security.　「脱増税」「脱官僚」「品格ある外交」など抽象的な言葉ばかりを掲げている。経済や社会保障、安全保障といった重要なテーマでさえまだ政策がない政党だ。People's Life First and another new party founded by former agriculture minister Masahiko Yamada are scheduled to join Nippon Mirai no To. At first glance, it would seem that Kada called the other two parties to join her. In reality, however, it was People's Life First head Ichiro Ozawa and Yamada who did the behind-the-scenes negotiations for the three parties to reach an agreement on unification. 　嘉田氏が「この指止まれ」と呼びかけたように見えるが、実態は国民の生活が第一の小沢一郎代表や、民主党を離党して新党を結成した山田正彦元農相らが根回しをして、合流を決めたものだ。Nippon Mirai no To's empty slogans and the disorderly shifting of allegiances among former House of Representatives members scrambling to be reelected in the coming general election are clear examples of how the quality of politicians has deteriorated.　空疎なスローガンと、生き残りのために右往左往する前衆院議員たちの姿には、政治家の劣化を痛感せざるを得ない。===Irresponsible energy policyKada's "sotsu gempatsu" slogan, which literally means "graduating from nuclear power plants," is basically no different from the "datsu-gempatsu" slogan adopted by several other parties, which literally means "breaking with nuclear power plants."　嘉田氏が掲げる「卒原発」は脱原発と大差はない。Touting such a slogan without showing a clear path to achieve the goal is a mere display of a desire, which obviously is irresponsible.それだけでは願望に過ぎず、無責任である。Nippon Mirai no To should prepare a concrete plan on how to stably supply electricity and secure an alternative energy source to nuclear power as well as how to deal with the economic loss and unemployment that plant shutdowns would bring. The party also needs to explain how to deal with the continuing necessity of human resources development in the nuclear sector.　電力の安定供給や代替エネルギー確保、経済・雇用対策、原子力の人材育成などについて現実的な計画を明確に示すべきだ。In launching itself, Nippon Mirai no To adopted the "Lake Biwa declaration," which includes a sentence that reads, "The prefecture with the greatest unrecognized risk of being damaged by possible accidents at nuclear power plants is Shiga, which is near Wakasa Bay, where a number of aging nuclear plants are located." This statement clearly lacks consideration for the feelings of municipalities where the power plants are actually located, neglecting the fact that Shiga Prefecture benefits from electricity produced by such aging nuclear plants.　結党に際して発表した「びわこ宣言」には「原発事故の潜在的リスクが最も高いのは老朽化した多数の原発が集中立地する若狭湾に近い滋賀県」とある。電力供給の恩恵を受けておきながら、原発立地自治体への配慮が不十分だ。We urge Kada to reconsider her intention of entering national-level politics merely for the interests of Shiga Prefecture. It is said that what obsessed Kada's mind the most in launching the new party was whether she would be able to handle the jobs of governor and party leader simultaneously. We assume she will face various hardships in carrying out her dual duties, as this is the first time for Kada to run a political party.　滋賀県の利害のために国政に進出するとの発想も改める必要がある。嘉田氏は知事と党首との兼務が可能かどうか悩んだという。政党運営の経験がないだけに、両立には困難が伴うに違いない。===The man behind the curtainIt seems that Ozawa had no compunctions about putting an end to People's Life First, a party whose name was carefully chosen by Ozawa himself. However, this is no surprise, as it is apparent that Ozawa wished to avoid entering the election campaign as a party leader, considering his image. In exchange, Ozawa's opinions were reflected in the draft of Nippon Mirai no To's election platform.　小沢氏が名称にもこだわった政党をあっさり捨てても、驚くには当たるまい。党首として前面に出たくなかったのだろう。その分、未来の党の公約原案には小沢氏の従来の主張が反映されている。The efforts of People's Life First to form an alliance with Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party) failed, and a new party comprising only former Democratic Party of Japan members would be unlikely to receive attention in the election campaign. We assume Ozawa's intention was to rally from behind by installing Kada, who has a clean image, as leader of the new party. Another display of Ozawa's tactical mastery.　日本維新の会と連携できず、民主党離党組の党だけでは選挙戦で埋没する。クリーンイメージの嘉田氏を「表の顔」に担ぎ出して巻き返そうと考えたようだ。相変わらずの小沢流である。The public's discontent against conventional parties has soared after a prolonged period of political paralysis. As a result, various new parties have been emerging and merging in the political arena, in a rather haphazard way. However, we have to put a question mark on their abilities to take the helm of the nation. Their policies have a strong flavor of pandering to the masses. 　「決められない政治」で既存政党に対する国民の不信感が高まる中、急ごしらえの新党の離合集散が目立っている。だが、新党は、国政を担う能力に疑問符が付き、政策も大衆迎合色が濃厚だ。We ask voters to pay sufficient attention to such tendencies of the new parties and scrutinize their real value in the general election.　有権者はそのことを十分理解した上で、新党の真価を見極めることが重要である。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Nov. 29, 2012)（2012年11月29日01時32分  読売新聞）