The Yomiuri Shimbun (Sep. 19, 2012)
Anti-U.S. feelings mustn't lead to destabilization of Middle East
反米デモ 中東の不安定化を憂慮する（9月18日付・読売社説）
Anti-U.S. demonstrations have spread in Middle Eastern and Asian countries over a video clip from a U.S. film regarded by Muslims as disparaging the Prophet Mohammed.
イスラム教の預言者ムハンマドを侮辱した映像に抗議する反米デモが、中東やアジアの国々に広がっている。
In the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi, the U.S. ambassador and three staff members were killed in an attack on the U.S. Consulate. It is strongly believed that armed extremists carried out the terrorist attack by taking advantage of the chaos caused by the anti-U.S. protests.
リビア東部ベンガジでは、米国領事館が襲撃され、米大使ら４人が死亡した。
デモの混乱に乗じて、武装勢力がテロを実行したとの見方も強い。
In Cairo, some protesters stormed into the U.S. Embassy compound. U.S. embassies also were attacked in Sudan and Tunisia. In Yemen, people were killed in clashes between protesters and police.
エジプトの首都カイロでは、デモ隊の一部が米大使館敷地内に乱入し、スーダンとチュニジアでも米大使館が襲われた。イエメンでは警察との衝突で死者が出た。
The wave of protests has spread to Asian countries with Muslim majorities, including Indonesia and Malaysia.
反米デモの波は、インドネシア、マレーシアなどアジアのイスラム国にも及んでいる。
Images from the video clip of the film, which was produced in the United States, spread across the world after it was posted on the Internet. It is not known which individual or group produced the video clip or why it was posted on the Internet, but it has fueled religious hostility. No wonder Muslims are offended.
問題の映像は、米国で作られた映画の要約版で、インターネットを通じて流れた。制作者やその意図は不明だが、宗教的対立をあおる行為だ。イスラム教徒が感情を害したのも無理はない。
===
Violence should be avoided
Even so, acts of violence and sabotage should never be permitted regardless of the anger the film provoked.
だが、そうであろうと、怒りにまかせた暴力的な破壊行為は許されるものではない。
U.S. President Barack Obama strongly denounced the attacks on the U.S. ambassador and others, saying "we reject the denigration of any religion...Yet there never is any justification for violence."
オバマ米大統領は、「われわれは他者の信仰を侮辱する行為を拒絶する」と述べた上で、「非常識な暴力は正当化できない」と米大使らへの襲撃を強く非難した。
We hope the situation will calm down as early as possible.
事態が早期に沈静化することを望みたい。
A major concern is that anti-U.S. sentiment has spread widely among common people in the Middle East, not just Muslim radicals.
懸念されるのは、過激派に限らず、中東の一般国民の間に反米感情が広がっている問題だ。
This may be because of their distrust in and discontent with U.S. policies vis-a-vis the Middle East.
根底には、米国の中東政策への不信、不満があるのだろう。
After taking office in 2009, Obama made an effort to improve relations with the Islamic world, where anti-U.S. sentiment had increased because of the Iraq War. He supported the Arab Spring reform movement against autocratic leaders.
オバマ大統領は就任後、イラク戦争によって対米感情が悪化したイスラム世界との関係改善に乗り出した。強権政治に立ち向かう「アラブの春」の改革を支持する立場を明確にしている。
Nevertheless, the demonstrations triggered by a video that has no connection whatsoever with the U.S. administration have spread. This underscores the existence of deep-rooted anti-U.S. feelings in addition to religious issues. Obama's Middle East policies do not seem to be functioning effectively.
にもかかわらず、米政府とは無関係の映像を契機に反米デモが広がったことは、宗教上の問題に加えて反米感情の根深さを物語っている。オバマ政権の中東政策が機能していないとも言えよう。
===
Democratization half done
In Egypt and other countries where autocratic rulers were ousted during the Arab Spring movement, democratization is only half carried out. We are worried over how the anti-U.S. protests will affect the internal politics of Middle Eastern countries.
「アラブの春」で独裁体制が崩壊したエジプトなどの民主化は道半ばだ。それだけに、この反米デモが、中東の国々の内政にもたらす影響が気がかりだ。
If the Middle East is thrown into chaos, it will have a global impact.
中東が混乱すれば、その影響は世界に及ぶ。
As a "Pacific nation," the United States has attached more importance to Asia. But if Washington changes this policy and deploys a significant number of troops to the Middle East, it may affect Japan's national security.
米国が「太平洋国家」としていくら「アジア重視」を唱えても、相当数の兵力を中東に振り向ける事態になれば、日本の安全保障に制約が生じかねない。
As Japan relies on the Middle East for slightly more than 80 percent of its crude oil imports, it is essential for this country to support the region's economic development by providing official development assistance and contribute to stabilizing the political situation.
政府開発援助（ＯＤＡ）などで中東諸国の経済発展を支え、政情の安定に寄与することは、原油輸入の８割強を中東に依存する日本にとっても重要である。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 18, 2012)
（2012年9月18日01時24分 読売新聞）
2012/09/20
2012/09/19
反日過激デモ 中国政府はなぜ容認するのか
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Sep. 18, 2012)
Why does Beijing permit anti-Japan protests?
反日過激デモ 中国政府はなぜ容認するのか（9月17日付・読売社説）
Anti-Japan protests have been expanding and escalating in China.
中国の反日デモが拡大し、過激化している。
This is a serious situation.
憂慮すべき事態だ。
Protesters railing against the recent nationalization of three islets of the Senkaku Islands in Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture, by the central government have taken to the streets of about 100 cities in China.
日本政府が沖縄県の尖閣諸島を国有化したことに抗議するデモは、中国の約１００都市に広がった。
In Beijing, protesters hurled rocks at the Japanese Embassy, while in other cities they attacked Japanese-affiliated business establishments. Some Japanese citizens have been assaulted in places where there have been no street demonstrations.
北京では日本大使館が投石され、地方都市では日系企業が襲撃された。デモの現場ではないが、日本人が暴行された例もあった。
It is quite reasonable for Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda to have lodged a protest with the Chinese government. The Japanese government must continuously press China to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens and businesses and the protection of their property.
野田首相が抗議したのは当然である。日本政府は引き続き、中国政府に対し、邦人と日系企業の安全、財産の保護を徹底するよう求めなければならない。
The Chinese government should strictly punish those involved in behavior that results in property destruction in accordance with the law.
中国政府は、破壊行為に関わった容疑者を法に基づいて厳正に処分すべきである。
In parallel with these protests, there have been aggressive acts by the Chinese government itself, which is apparently trying to undermine Japan's control of the Senkaku Islands.
デモと並行して、尖閣諸島の実効支配を崩そうとする中国政府の示威行動も目立つ。
===
Unprecedented intrusion
In an unprecedented action, six Chinese government maritime surveillance ships intruded into Japanese territorial waters near the Senkaku Islands on Friday at the same time.
尖閣諸島周辺の日本の領海内に１４日、中国の海洋監視船６隻が侵入した。中国公船が同時に６隻も侵入してきたのは過去に例がない。
This is the first time that China has raised tensions with Japan to such a stage since bilateral diplomatic relations were normalized in 1972.
１９７２年の日中国交正常化以来、これほど中国が日本との間で緊張を高めたのは初めてだ。
China has probably acted out of a heightened sense of crisis that it may lose face if the administration under the Chinese Communist Party is perceived by the people to have conceded to Japan over the Senkaku islets.
尖閣諸島を巡って日本に譲歩した、と国内で受け止められれば、共産党政権の威信が揺らぐと危機感を強めているのだろう。
In China, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Japan's "wrongful act" (nationalization of the three islets) has been provoking strong righteous indignation in China, showing Beijing's sympathy for the anti-Japan protests. A senior Commerce Ministry official has also implied a boycott of Japanese products would be a natural consequence.
中国は、外務省報道官が「日本の誤った行為が強い義憤を引き起こしている」と反日デモへの理解を示し、商務省幹部も日本製品の不買運動を容認するかのような発言をしている。
Such developments have fueled the anger of a younger generation that has been immersed in patriotic education, causing an escalation of their actions.
これが愛国教育世代の若者を煽(あお)り、行動の過激化を招いた。
The Chinese government has apparently decided to politically exploit the people's anger against the Japanese government's nationalization of the Senkaku Islands to exert diplomatic pressure on Japan.
中国政府には、尖閣諸島国有化に反発する国民の怒りを対日圧力に利用する政治的思惑がある。
===
Maintain the rule of law
But for the Chinese government to sanction illegal behavior under a slogan that a patriotic act should not be considered a crime would be to deny the rule of law. And boycotting products of a specific country violates the spirit of free trade, which also runs counter to China's interests.
だが、愛国的行為は罪に問われないとする「愛国無罪」のスローガンの下、破壊行為を正当化するのは法治の否定だ。特定国の製品の不買は自由貿易に反する。中国のためにもならない。
Appeals are being made for people to demonstrate against Japan again on Tuesday, which marks the 81st anniversary of the Liutiaohu Incident that triggered the Manchurian Incident. It is feared the daily activities of Japanese people and businesses in China may be badly affected again.
満州事変の発端となった柳条湖事件から８１年に当たる１８日、各地では再びデモが呼びかけられている。邦人の生活や日系企業の営業活動への影響が懸念される。
It is highly likely that a fleet of Chinese fishing boats, escorted by fishing monitoring vessels of the Chinese agriculture ministry, will soon leave ports for the Senkaku Islands shortly and try to intrude into Japanese territorial waters.
間もなく尖閣諸島沖に向け、中国漁船が大挙出港し、農業省の漁業監視船の護衛で、日本領海への侵入を図る可能性が高い。
The Japanese government, for its part, must make absolutely sure that the Japan Coast Guard protects the territorial waters.
日本政府は海上保安庁による領海警備に万全を期すべきだ。
The government must assert to the international community that the Senkaku Islands are Japanese territory and that the recent acquisition of the islands is intended to place them under stable government management.
政府は、尖閣諸島は日本の領土であり、安定的に管理するための国有化であることを、国際社会に主張していかねばならない。
The national leaders of Japan and China should bring the current situation under control so as not to aggravate the conflict of their people's sentiments.
国民感情の対立を深めぬよう、日中両国は首脳レベルで、事態の沈静化に努める必要がある。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 17, 2012)
（2012年9月17日01時20分 読売新聞）
Why does Beijing permit anti-Japan protests?
反日過激デモ 中国政府はなぜ容認するのか（9月17日付・読売社説）
Anti-Japan protests have been expanding and escalating in China.
中国の反日デモが拡大し、過激化している。
This is a serious situation.
憂慮すべき事態だ。
Protesters railing against the recent nationalization of three islets of the Senkaku Islands in Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture, by the central government have taken to the streets of about 100 cities in China.
日本政府が沖縄県の尖閣諸島を国有化したことに抗議するデモは、中国の約１００都市に広がった。
In Beijing, protesters hurled rocks at the Japanese Embassy, while in other cities they attacked Japanese-affiliated business establishments. Some Japanese citizens have been assaulted in places where there have been no street demonstrations.
北京では日本大使館が投石され、地方都市では日系企業が襲撃された。デモの現場ではないが、日本人が暴行された例もあった。
It is quite reasonable for Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda to have lodged a protest with the Chinese government. The Japanese government must continuously press China to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens and businesses and the protection of their property.
野田首相が抗議したのは当然である。日本政府は引き続き、中国政府に対し、邦人と日系企業の安全、財産の保護を徹底するよう求めなければならない。
The Chinese government should strictly punish those involved in behavior that results in property destruction in accordance with the law.
中国政府は、破壊行為に関わった容疑者を法に基づいて厳正に処分すべきである。
In parallel with these protests, there have been aggressive acts by the Chinese government itself, which is apparently trying to undermine Japan's control of the Senkaku Islands.
デモと並行して、尖閣諸島の実効支配を崩そうとする中国政府の示威行動も目立つ。
===
Unprecedented intrusion
In an unprecedented action, six Chinese government maritime surveillance ships intruded into Japanese territorial waters near the Senkaku Islands on Friday at the same time.
尖閣諸島周辺の日本の領海内に１４日、中国の海洋監視船６隻が侵入した。中国公船が同時に６隻も侵入してきたのは過去に例がない。
This is the first time that China has raised tensions with Japan to such a stage since bilateral diplomatic relations were normalized in 1972.
１９７２年の日中国交正常化以来、これほど中国が日本との間で緊張を高めたのは初めてだ。
China has probably acted out of a heightened sense of crisis that it may lose face if the administration under the Chinese Communist Party is perceived by the people to have conceded to Japan over the Senkaku islets.
尖閣諸島を巡って日本に譲歩した、と国内で受け止められれば、共産党政権の威信が揺らぐと危機感を強めているのだろう。
In China, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Japan's "wrongful act" (nationalization of the three islets) has been provoking strong righteous indignation in China, showing Beijing's sympathy for the anti-Japan protests. A senior Commerce Ministry official has also implied a boycott of Japanese products would be a natural consequence.
中国は、外務省報道官が「日本の誤った行為が強い義憤を引き起こしている」と反日デモへの理解を示し、商務省幹部も日本製品の不買運動を容認するかのような発言をしている。
Such developments have fueled the anger of a younger generation that has been immersed in patriotic education, causing an escalation of their actions.
これが愛国教育世代の若者を煽(あお)り、行動の過激化を招いた。
The Chinese government has apparently decided to politically exploit the people's anger against the Japanese government's nationalization of the Senkaku Islands to exert diplomatic pressure on Japan.
中国政府には、尖閣諸島国有化に反発する国民の怒りを対日圧力に利用する政治的思惑がある。
===
Maintain the rule of law
But for the Chinese government to sanction illegal behavior under a slogan that a patriotic act should not be considered a crime would be to deny the rule of law. And boycotting products of a specific country violates the spirit of free trade, which also runs counter to China's interests.
だが、愛国的行為は罪に問われないとする「愛国無罪」のスローガンの下、破壊行為を正当化するのは法治の否定だ。特定国の製品の不買は自由貿易に反する。中国のためにもならない。
Appeals are being made for people to demonstrate against Japan again on Tuesday, which marks the 81st anniversary of the Liutiaohu Incident that triggered the Manchurian Incident. It is feared the daily activities of Japanese people and businesses in China may be badly affected again.
満州事変の発端となった柳条湖事件から８１年に当たる１８日、各地では再びデモが呼びかけられている。邦人の生活や日系企業の営業活動への影響が懸念される。
It is highly likely that a fleet of Chinese fishing boats, escorted by fishing monitoring vessels of the Chinese agriculture ministry, will soon leave ports for the Senkaku Islands shortly and try to intrude into Japanese territorial waters.
間もなく尖閣諸島沖に向け、中国漁船が大挙出港し、農業省の漁業監視船の護衛で、日本領海への侵入を図る可能性が高い。
The Japanese government, for its part, must make absolutely sure that the Japan Coast Guard protects the territorial waters.
日本政府は海上保安庁による領海警備に万全を期すべきだ。
The government must assert to the international community that the Senkaku Islands are Japanese territory and that the recent acquisition of the islands is intended to place them under stable government management.
政府は、尖閣諸島は日本の領土であり、安定的に管理するための国有化であることを、国際社会に主張していかねばならない。
The national leaders of Japan and China should bring the current situation under control so as not to aggravate the conflict of their people's sentiments.
国民感情の対立を深めぬよう、日中両国は首脳レベルで、事態の沈静化に努める必要がある。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 17, 2012)
（2012年9月17日01時20分 読売新聞）
2012/09/18
エネルギー選択 「原発ゼロ」は戦略に値しない
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Nov. 13, 2012)
Local govts need bigger ax to slash personnel costs
地方公務員給与 自治体はもっと削減努力を（11月11日付・読売社説）
Slashing personnel costs is a crucial task for local governments and from the viewpoint of rebuilding the central government's finances. It is essential that local governments redouble their efforts to cut expenditures.
地方の人件費圧縮は、国の財政再建にも重要な課題だ。
自治体の削減努力が求められる。
With preparations for compiling a state budget for fiscal 2013 under way, the Finance Ministry announced provisional calculations regarding salary levels of local government employees.
２０１３年度予算の編成に向け、財務省が地方公務員の給与水準に関する試算を発表した。
The Laspeyres index--an indicator that compares local government employees' salaries against a base of 100 for salaries of central government workers--stood at 106.9 for fiscal 2012, marking a reversal for the first time in nine years, according to the estimates.
国家公務員を１００としたときの地方公務員の給与水準を示すラスパイレス指数が、１２年度は１０６・９となり、９年ぶりに国と地方の給与が逆転した。
Salaries in more than 80 percent of about 1,800 local entities across Japan exceeded the pay pocketed by central government employees.
全国約１８００自治体の８割以上が国より高水準だった。
This seems partly due to the fact that the central government decided to cut its employees' salaries for two years from fiscal 2012 to raise funds for budgetary appropriations for reconstruction from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
東日本大震災の復興予算を捻出するため、国家公務員の給与を１２年度から２年間、引き下げた措置が影響しているのだろう。
Salaries of local government employees are stipulated by ordinances, mainly after consultations between municipalities and trade unions of their workers. The central government has no say in pay scale decisions by local governments.
地方公務員の給与は労組との協議などを経て、自治体が条例で決める。国に決定権はない。
===
Averse to pay cuts
However, local government employees' salaries are paid from local tax grants allocated by the central government, in addition to local tax revenues.
ただ、その財源となるのは、地方税などに加え、国から配分される地方交付税交付金だ。
These tax grants, which are designed to help local governments make up for budget deficits, have reached more than 17 trillion yen a year. The central government funds these grants by incurring debts. Providing cash for local tax grants has been a major cause of the central government's fiscal crunch, along with fast-ballooning social security costs.
地方の財源不足を補う１７兆円超の交付税は国が借金しながら支えており、社会保障費と並んで国家財政を圧迫する要因となっている。
Personnel costs account for about one-fourth of the more than 80 trillion yen in total expenses of local governments throughout Japan. Curtailing employees' salaries is essential for turning around the finances of chronically debt-ridden local governments.
地方全体の歳出８０兆円超のうち給与が４分の１を占める。公務員給与の削減は、借金体質が続く地方財政の改革に不可欠だ。
Kyoto Gov. Keiji Yamada, who chairs the Association of Prefectural Governors, has bristled at the Finance Ministry's suggestion that local government workers' salaries must be cut. He said the central government "should recognize the efforts being made by local governments" to reel in budget deficits.
財務省の指摘に対し、全国知事会長の山田啓二京都府知事は「地方の努力を評価してもらわないと困る」と反発し、
Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Shinji Tarutoko also joined the chorus of criticism, saying the Finance Ministry was "making figures arbitrarily, apparently with the aim of misleading public opinion. This is extremely inappropriate."
樽床総務相も「勝手に数字を出して世論をミスリードするのは甚だ不適切だ」と不快感を表明している。
The way salaries of local government employees are determined is baffling for several reasons.
しかし、地方公務員給与の現状をみれば、首をかしげたくなるような面も少なくない。
Salary levels for a local government are decided, in principle, after checking salaries of other local entities and the central government, as well as salary trends in the private sector.
給与水準は国や他の自治体、民間の動向を踏まえて決定することになっている。
===
Fringe benefits too generous
According to the Finance Ministry, workers at local governments in every prefecture earned larger pay packets than the average monthly pay of private business employees. Local government monthly salaries were more than 100,000 yen higher than company employees' salaries in Aomori, Akita and Ehime prefectures, the ministry noted.
だが、財務省によれば、全都道府県で民間の平均月額給与を上回る。青森、秋田、愛媛３県は１０万円以上多い。
Aside from regular administrative positions, local government employees handling cleaning and bus-driving duties are paid 1.5 times the amount their private-sector counterparts receive. The figures are 1.9 times higher for security guards and and 1.8 times for telephone operators.
一般職以外でも、清掃関係やバス運転手は民間の１・５倍、警備員は１・９倍、電話交換手が１・８倍などと厚遇ぶりが目立つ。
Some local entities pay employees housing allowances--a perk already abolished for central government employees. Others give special allowances to teachers for accompanying school excursions and supervising high school exams.
国家公務員では廃止された持ち家手当を温存し、修学旅行の引率や高校入試の監督まで特殊勤務手当で支給する自治体もある。
Both the ruling and opposition camps appear reluctant to take up the issue of local government salaries. They seem afraid of antagonizing local entities when a House of Representatives election is likely to be held soon.
与野党とも衆院選を前に地方の反発を恐れ、地方公務員の給与問題には及び腰となりがちだ。
Community residents and assemblies should press harder for administrative reform of local governments.
地域の住民や議会が一層の行政改革を迫ることが重要だろう。
When the consumption tax rate is raised to 10 percent from October 2015, revenue from 1.54 percentage points of the five-point hike will go to local governments' coffers, which they can use at their discretion.
１５年１０月に消費税率が１０％に引き上げられた段階で、増税５％のうち１・５４％分は自治体に回り、自主財源となる。
Given this, local governments should remain aware of their responsibility to further cut expenditures to ensure fiscal matters are handled effectively and properly.
地方は一段と歳出削減に取り組み、メリハリのある財政運営を行う責任がある。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Nov. 11, 2012)
（2012年11月11日01時19分 読売新聞）
Local govts need bigger ax to slash personnel costs
地方公務員給与 自治体はもっと削減努力を（11月11日付・読売社説）
Slashing personnel costs is a crucial task for local governments and from the viewpoint of rebuilding the central government's finances. It is essential that local governments redouble their efforts to cut expenditures.
地方の人件費圧縮は、国の財政再建にも重要な課題だ。
自治体の削減努力が求められる。
With preparations for compiling a state budget for fiscal 2013 under way, the Finance Ministry announced provisional calculations regarding salary levels of local government employees.
２０１３年度予算の編成に向け、財務省が地方公務員の給与水準に関する試算を発表した。
The Laspeyres index--an indicator that compares local government employees' salaries against a base of 100 for salaries of central government workers--stood at 106.9 for fiscal 2012, marking a reversal for the first time in nine years, according to the estimates.
国家公務員を１００としたときの地方公務員の給与水準を示すラスパイレス指数が、１２年度は１０６・９となり、９年ぶりに国と地方の給与が逆転した。
Salaries in more than 80 percent of about 1,800 local entities across Japan exceeded the pay pocketed by central government employees.
全国約１８００自治体の８割以上が国より高水準だった。
This seems partly due to the fact that the central government decided to cut its employees' salaries for two years from fiscal 2012 to raise funds for budgetary appropriations for reconstruction from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
東日本大震災の復興予算を捻出するため、国家公務員の給与を１２年度から２年間、引き下げた措置が影響しているのだろう。
Salaries of local government employees are stipulated by ordinances, mainly after consultations between municipalities and trade unions of their workers. The central government has no say in pay scale decisions by local governments.
地方公務員の給与は労組との協議などを経て、自治体が条例で決める。国に決定権はない。
===
Averse to pay cuts
However, local government employees' salaries are paid from local tax grants allocated by the central government, in addition to local tax revenues.
ただ、その財源となるのは、地方税などに加え、国から配分される地方交付税交付金だ。
These tax grants, which are designed to help local governments make up for budget deficits, have reached more than 17 trillion yen a year. The central government funds these grants by incurring debts. Providing cash for local tax grants has been a major cause of the central government's fiscal crunch, along with fast-ballooning social security costs.
地方の財源不足を補う１７兆円超の交付税は国が借金しながら支えており、社会保障費と並んで国家財政を圧迫する要因となっている。
Personnel costs account for about one-fourth of the more than 80 trillion yen in total expenses of local governments throughout Japan. Curtailing employees' salaries is essential for turning around the finances of chronically debt-ridden local governments.
地方全体の歳出８０兆円超のうち給与が４分の１を占める。公務員給与の削減は、借金体質が続く地方財政の改革に不可欠だ。
Kyoto Gov. Keiji Yamada, who chairs the Association of Prefectural Governors, has bristled at the Finance Ministry's suggestion that local government workers' salaries must be cut. He said the central government "should recognize the efforts being made by local governments" to reel in budget deficits.
財務省の指摘に対し、全国知事会長の山田啓二京都府知事は「地方の努力を評価してもらわないと困る」と反発し、
Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Shinji Tarutoko also joined the chorus of criticism, saying the Finance Ministry was "making figures arbitrarily, apparently with the aim of misleading public opinion. This is extremely inappropriate."
樽床総務相も「勝手に数字を出して世論をミスリードするのは甚だ不適切だ」と不快感を表明している。
The way salaries of local government employees are determined is baffling for several reasons.
しかし、地方公務員給与の現状をみれば、首をかしげたくなるような面も少なくない。
Salary levels for a local government are decided, in principle, after checking salaries of other local entities and the central government, as well as salary trends in the private sector.
給与水準は国や他の自治体、民間の動向を踏まえて決定することになっている。
===
Fringe benefits too generous
According to the Finance Ministry, workers at local governments in every prefecture earned larger pay packets than the average monthly pay of private business employees. Local government monthly salaries were more than 100,000 yen higher than company employees' salaries in Aomori, Akita and Ehime prefectures, the ministry noted.
だが、財務省によれば、全都道府県で民間の平均月額給与を上回る。青森、秋田、愛媛３県は１０万円以上多い。
Aside from regular administrative positions, local government employees handling cleaning and bus-driving duties are paid 1.5 times the amount their private-sector counterparts receive. The figures are 1.9 times higher for security guards and and 1.8 times for telephone operators.
一般職以外でも、清掃関係やバス運転手は民間の１・５倍、警備員は１・９倍、電話交換手が１・８倍などと厚遇ぶりが目立つ。
Some local entities pay employees housing allowances--a perk already abolished for central government employees. Others give special allowances to teachers for accompanying school excursions and supervising high school exams.
国家公務員では廃止された持ち家手当を温存し、修学旅行の引率や高校入試の監督まで特殊勤務手当で支給する自治体もある。
Both the ruling and opposition camps appear reluctant to take up the issue of local government salaries. They seem afraid of antagonizing local entities when a House of Representatives election is likely to be held soon.
与野党とも衆院選を前に地方の反発を恐れ、地方公務員の給与問題には及び腰となりがちだ。
Community residents and assemblies should press harder for administrative reform of local governments.
地域の住民や議会が一層の行政改革を迫ることが重要だろう。
When the consumption tax rate is raised to 10 percent from October 2015, revenue from 1.54 percentage points of the five-point hike will go to local governments' coffers, which they can use at their discretion.
１５年１０月に消費税率が１０％に引き上げられた段階で、増税５％のうち１・５４％分は自治体に回り、自主財源となる。
Given this, local governments should remain aware of their responsibility to further cut expenditures to ensure fiscal matters are handled effectively and properly.
地方は一段と歳出削減に取り組み、メリハリのある財政運営を行う責任がある。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Nov. 11, 2012)
（2012年11月11日01時19分 読売新聞）
2012/09/17
自民総裁選告示 日本の針路に責任ある論戦を
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Sep. 17, 2012)
LDP presidential candidates should thoroughly debate issues
自民総裁選告示 日本の針路に責任ある論戦を（9月16日付・読売社説）
◆原発・ＴＰＰから逃げるな◆
If the Liberal Democratic Party's goal is to regain power, the candidates seeking their party's leadership must reveal concrete measures on how to tackle the vital tasks facing the nation.
政権奪還を目指すという以上、日本が直面する重要課題への具体的な処方箋を明らかにしなければならない。
The LDP presidential race kicked off Friday, with five members running for the leadership: former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe; former LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Shigeru Ishiba; former Chief Cabinet Secretary Nobutaka Machimura; LDP Secretary General Nobuteru Ishihara; and Yoshimasa Hayashi, acting chairman of the Policy Research Council. Verbal clashes among the five are heating up ahead of the voting on Sept. 26.
自民党総裁選が１４日、告示され、安倍晋三元首相、石破茂前政調会長、町村信孝元官房長官、石原伸晃幹事長、林芳正政調会長代理の５人が立候補した。２６日の投開票日に向け、論戦も本格化している。
If the LDP wins the next House of Representatives election, the new party president will likely become the prime minister. We are looking forward to scrutinizing the qualities of the candidates as well as their policies through the election race.
次の衆院選で自民党が勝てば、新総裁は首相に就任する公算が大きい。総裁選を通じて候補の資質と政策を十分に吟味したい。
◆「集団的自衛権」は評価◆
The public is watching the campaign to confirm whether the LDP is capable of holding the reins of government. To regain the public's trust of the party, all candidates must clarify how they would deal with issues that have split public opinion.
総裁選では自民党の政権担当能力の有無も問われる。信頼を取り戻すためには、国論を二分する政策について明確に方向性を示す必要があろう。
===
Show details on collective defense
All five candidates have pledged to amend the Constitution. Furthermore, they have stated in their election pledges that Japan should be allowed to exercise its right to collective self-defense. The five plan to establish a basic law on national security that will enable the nation to exercise this right. This is essential in order to restore the Japan-U.S. alliance after it was eroded during the administrations of Yukio Hatoyama and Naoto Kan.
５氏とも、憲法改正だけではなく、集団的自衛権の行使容認を公約に掲げている。これを可能とする「国家安全保障基本法」制定も目指す。鳩山、菅両政権で揺らいだ日米同盟の立て直しには欠かせない。
We commend them on this issue.
この点は評価したい。
However, when the LDP formed a coalition government with New Komeito, the party failed to get the ball rolling on allowing the nation to exercise its right to collective self-defense. The candidates must show specific steps to achieve this goal.
ただ、集団的自衛権行使の容認は自公政権で手をつけられなかった課題である。実現に向けての具体的な手順を示す必要がある。
The present government recently set out a target of "zero nuclear power plants operating" in the 2030s. Machimura criticized this policy, saying it is "just an expression of hope without specific means to achieve it." The other four candidates have similar opinions on this issue.
政府が２０３０年代の「原発稼働ゼロ」を目標に掲げたことに対して、町村氏は「単なる願望であり、具体的な道筋がない」と批判した。この点でも、５氏の足並みはそろっている。
We can never approve the government's slipshod decision of announcing its "zero nuclear power" policy without sorting out ways to secure viable alternatives to nuclear power.
代替エネルギーのあてもないまま、原発ゼロを打ち出した政府・民主党の短慮は認められない。
What do the presidential candidates of the LDP--which had promoted nuclear power for so long during its administrations--think about the nation's future energy policy? If they say only that it is too early to draw a conclusion, they are evading the issue.
では、原子力行政を長年推し進めてきた自民党は、今後のエネルギー政策について、どう考えているのか。現段階で結論を出せないと言うだけなら、議論から逃げていることになる。
On the issue of joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade framework, all candidates have stated they oppose joining TPP negotiations if the premise is to eliminate tariffs without any "sanctuaries." If so, the candidates should explain their conditions for joining the TPP and how they would go about joining it.
環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）参加問題については、各氏とも「聖域なき関税撤廃を前提とした交渉参加には反対だ」と主張する。それなら、参加するための条件や道筋を語るべきだろう。
Hasn't the LDP emphasized expanding free trade in its growth strategy? The party should not turn its back to the TPP, which is essential to take advantage of economic growth in neighboring Asian nations.
自民党はこれまで、自由貿易拡大による成長戦略を重視してきたはずだ。アジアの経済成長を取り込む上で欠かせないＴＰＰに背を向けてはならない。
We believe the candidates are considering the reactions of agricultural organizations such as agricultural cooperatives. However, under the existing circumstances, Japan's agriculture will only continue declining. The candidates must discuss measures to revive domestic agriculture so it can cope with further trade liberalization.
農協など農業団体への配慮もあるのだろう。だが、農業はこのままでは地盤沈下が進むだけだ。貿易自由化に対応できるよう農業の再生策こそ議論すべきである。
===
Diplomacy toward Beijing
◆対中外交をどうする◆
On the diplomatic front, we want to hear what the aspirants for the top LDP post think about issues affecting Japan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and how they would rebuild this country's diplomatic ties with China, South Korea and Russia.
外交では、対中・韓・露外交を再構築するためにも、主権・領土の問題への対応を聞きたい。
The candidates have all agreed on the need to beef up Japan's control of the Senkaku Islands. The tricky part is what measures they would take to achieve this.
尖閣諸島の実効支配を強化する方針では、各氏とも一致している。問題は具体策だ。
Ishihara said, "It's natural for this country to defend its sovereignty, but now is the time for us to keep a cool head."
石原氏は「主権を守るのは当然だが、クールダウンすべきだ」と指摘した。
Anti-Japanese demonstrations have become increasingly boisterous in China. To urge the Chinese government to calm the situation, the government and the ruling and opposition camps should levelheadedly work as one.
中国国内では反日デモが激しさを増している。中国に事態の沈静化を求めるために、政府や与野党が一丸となって冷静に対処すべきだろう。
Another matter of high significance is which party or parties the LDP should link up with after the next lower house election.
一方、衆院選後にどの党と連携するかも重要な問題である。
Whatever the outcome of the election, the LDP will still lack a majority in the House of Councillors, even when counting the seats held by New Komeito. This situation will continue until at least next summer's upper house election.
自民党は、衆院選の結果にかかわりなく、参院で公明党と合わせても過半数に及ばない。来夏の参院選までこの状態が続く。
The five candidates are all wary of the idea of forming a grand coalition with the Democratic Party of Japan. Instead, they favor cooperation with the DPJ on a policy-by-policy basis.
５氏とも民主党との大連立に否定的で、政策ごとの合意を訴えた。
Abe, for his part, has hinted at a possible partnership with Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party), which is led by Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto.
安倍氏は橋下徹大阪市長が率いる「日本維新の会」との連携に含みを持たせている。
Some of Ishin no Kai's policies neatly fit those of the LDP, such as seeking revisions to the Constitution. However, many policy commitments of the party starkly contrast with those of the LDP, including the former's demand that the number of lower house seats be halved.
維新の会の政策には、改憲など自民党と一致する点もあるが、衆院議員の定数半減など相いれない面も少なくない。
The LDP will need to consider these details carefully before forming any full-blooded political alliance.
政策本位で連携の是非を考えるべきだ。
Regarding comprehensive reform of social security and tax systems jointly undertaken by the DPJ, the LDP and Komeito, all the LDP candidates have committed to adhering with the three-party accord. This is a natural course of action.
５氏とも、民主、自民、公明の３党で進めた社会保障・税一体改革について、合意を順守することを言明した。当然だろう。
===
New Diet rules required
◆国会のルールを見直せ◆
The DPJ-LDP-Komeito tripartite agreement must be kept intact. The three parties should jointly address such key tasks as working out how to lower the financial burdens low-income earners will face when the consumption tax rate is increased, and enhance efficiency in budget appropriations for ballooning social security expenditures.
民自公路線は今後も堅持し、消費増税に伴う低所得者対策や膨張する社会保障費の効率化といった課題に取り組む必要がある。
Abe said the proposed consumption tax hike "could put a damper on the economy if it's implemented at the wrong time," indicating the possibility he would postpone the first stage of the tax raise in April 2014.
ただ、安倍氏は消費税率引き上げに関し、「時期を間違えると経済の腰を折ってしまう」と述べ、２０１４年４月段階の増税先送りの可能性を示唆した。
Although due consideration should be paid to national economic conditions before the tax increase, the importance of reconstructing the deficit-ridden government finances--a problem left alone for too long--should never be taken lightly.
増税前に経済状況を考慮することは必要だが、長年の懸案である財政再建を軽視することがあってはならない。
Ishiba said the government-sponsored bill for enabling the issuance of deficit-covering bonds "shouldn't be used as a tool in a power struggle" between the parties. We agree entirely.
赤字国債発行を可能とする特例公債法案について、石破氏は「政争の具に使うべきではない」と提案した。もっともである。
This bill must not be used as a bargaining chip by the LDP as it pushes for the early dissolution of the lower house for a general election.
衆院解散・総選挙を求める駆け引きに使うべきではない。
In the divided Diet, where the opposition holds a majority in the upper house while the ruling bloc controls the lower house, what can be done so this nation has "politics capable of making decisions"?
衆参ねじれ国会の下で、「決められる政治」をどう実現していくのか。
Deeper discussions should be held about how to formulate new rules for running Diet affairs.
新たな国会のルールづくりの論議も深めてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 16, 2012)
（2012年9月16日01時15分 読売新聞）
LDP presidential candidates should thoroughly debate issues
自民総裁選告示 日本の針路に責任ある論戦を（9月16日付・読売社説）
◆原発・ＴＰＰから逃げるな◆
If the Liberal Democratic Party's goal is to regain power, the candidates seeking their party's leadership must reveal concrete measures on how to tackle the vital tasks facing the nation.
政権奪還を目指すという以上、日本が直面する重要課題への具体的な処方箋を明らかにしなければならない。
The LDP presidential race kicked off Friday, with five members running for the leadership: former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe; former LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Shigeru Ishiba; former Chief Cabinet Secretary Nobutaka Machimura; LDP Secretary General Nobuteru Ishihara; and Yoshimasa Hayashi, acting chairman of the Policy Research Council. Verbal clashes among the five are heating up ahead of the voting on Sept. 26.
自民党総裁選が１４日、告示され、安倍晋三元首相、石破茂前政調会長、町村信孝元官房長官、石原伸晃幹事長、林芳正政調会長代理の５人が立候補した。２６日の投開票日に向け、論戦も本格化している。
If the LDP wins the next House of Representatives election, the new party president will likely become the prime minister. We are looking forward to scrutinizing the qualities of the candidates as well as their policies through the election race.
次の衆院選で自民党が勝てば、新総裁は首相に就任する公算が大きい。総裁選を通じて候補の資質と政策を十分に吟味したい。
◆「集団的自衛権」は評価◆
The public is watching the campaign to confirm whether the LDP is capable of holding the reins of government. To regain the public's trust of the party, all candidates must clarify how they would deal with issues that have split public opinion.
総裁選では自民党の政権担当能力の有無も問われる。信頼を取り戻すためには、国論を二分する政策について明確に方向性を示す必要があろう。
===
Show details on collective defense
All five candidates have pledged to amend the Constitution. Furthermore, they have stated in their election pledges that Japan should be allowed to exercise its right to collective self-defense. The five plan to establish a basic law on national security that will enable the nation to exercise this right. This is essential in order to restore the Japan-U.S. alliance after it was eroded during the administrations of Yukio Hatoyama and Naoto Kan.
５氏とも、憲法改正だけではなく、集団的自衛権の行使容認を公約に掲げている。これを可能とする「国家安全保障基本法」制定も目指す。鳩山、菅両政権で揺らいだ日米同盟の立て直しには欠かせない。
We commend them on this issue.
この点は評価したい。
However, when the LDP formed a coalition government with New Komeito, the party failed to get the ball rolling on allowing the nation to exercise its right to collective self-defense. The candidates must show specific steps to achieve this goal.
ただ、集団的自衛権行使の容認は自公政権で手をつけられなかった課題である。実現に向けての具体的な手順を示す必要がある。
The present government recently set out a target of "zero nuclear power plants operating" in the 2030s. Machimura criticized this policy, saying it is "just an expression of hope without specific means to achieve it." The other four candidates have similar opinions on this issue.
政府が２０３０年代の「原発稼働ゼロ」を目標に掲げたことに対して、町村氏は「単なる願望であり、具体的な道筋がない」と批判した。この点でも、５氏の足並みはそろっている。
We can never approve the government's slipshod decision of announcing its "zero nuclear power" policy without sorting out ways to secure viable alternatives to nuclear power.
代替エネルギーのあてもないまま、原発ゼロを打ち出した政府・民主党の短慮は認められない。
What do the presidential candidates of the LDP--which had promoted nuclear power for so long during its administrations--think about the nation's future energy policy? If they say only that it is too early to draw a conclusion, they are evading the issue.
では、原子力行政を長年推し進めてきた自民党は、今後のエネルギー政策について、どう考えているのか。現段階で結論を出せないと言うだけなら、議論から逃げていることになる。
On the issue of joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade framework, all candidates have stated they oppose joining TPP negotiations if the premise is to eliminate tariffs without any "sanctuaries." If so, the candidates should explain their conditions for joining the TPP and how they would go about joining it.
環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）参加問題については、各氏とも「聖域なき関税撤廃を前提とした交渉参加には反対だ」と主張する。それなら、参加するための条件や道筋を語るべきだろう。
Hasn't the LDP emphasized expanding free trade in its growth strategy? The party should not turn its back to the TPP, which is essential to take advantage of economic growth in neighboring Asian nations.
自民党はこれまで、自由貿易拡大による成長戦略を重視してきたはずだ。アジアの経済成長を取り込む上で欠かせないＴＰＰに背を向けてはならない。
We believe the candidates are considering the reactions of agricultural organizations such as agricultural cooperatives. However, under the existing circumstances, Japan's agriculture will only continue declining. The candidates must discuss measures to revive domestic agriculture so it can cope with further trade liberalization.
農協など農業団体への配慮もあるのだろう。だが、農業はこのままでは地盤沈下が進むだけだ。貿易自由化に対応できるよう農業の再生策こそ議論すべきである。
===
Diplomacy toward Beijing
◆対中外交をどうする◆
On the diplomatic front, we want to hear what the aspirants for the top LDP post think about issues affecting Japan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and how they would rebuild this country's diplomatic ties with China, South Korea and Russia.
外交では、対中・韓・露外交を再構築するためにも、主権・領土の問題への対応を聞きたい。
The candidates have all agreed on the need to beef up Japan's control of the Senkaku Islands. The tricky part is what measures they would take to achieve this.
尖閣諸島の実効支配を強化する方針では、各氏とも一致している。問題は具体策だ。
Ishihara said, "It's natural for this country to defend its sovereignty, but now is the time for us to keep a cool head."
石原氏は「主権を守るのは当然だが、クールダウンすべきだ」と指摘した。
Anti-Japanese demonstrations have become increasingly boisterous in China. To urge the Chinese government to calm the situation, the government and the ruling and opposition camps should levelheadedly work as one.
中国国内では反日デモが激しさを増している。中国に事態の沈静化を求めるために、政府や与野党が一丸となって冷静に対処すべきだろう。
Another matter of high significance is which party or parties the LDP should link up with after the next lower house election.
一方、衆院選後にどの党と連携するかも重要な問題である。
Whatever the outcome of the election, the LDP will still lack a majority in the House of Councillors, even when counting the seats held by New Komeito. This situation will continue until at least next summer's upper house election.
自民党は、衆院選の結果にかかわりなく、参院で公明党と合わせても過半数に及ばない。来夏の参院選までこの状態が続く。
The five candidates are all wary of the idea of forming a grand coalition with the Democratic Party of Japan. Instead, they favor cooperation with the DPJ on a policy-by-policy basis.
５氏とも民主党との大連立に否定的で、政策ごとの合意を訴えた。
Abe, for his part, has hinted at a possible partnership with Nippon Ishin no Kai (Japan Restoration Party), which is led by Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto.
安倍氏は橋下徹大阪市長が率いる「日本維新の会」との連携に含みを持たせている。
Some of Ishin no Kai's policies neatly fit those of the LDP, such as seeking revisions to the Constitution. However, many policy commitments of the party starkly contrast with those of the LDP, including the former's demand that the number of lower house seats be halved.
維新の会の政策には、改憲など自民党と一致する点もあるが、衆院議員の定数半減など相いれない面も少なくない。
The LDP will need to consider these details carefully before forming any full-blooded political alliance.
政策本位で連携の是非を考えるべきだ。
Regarding comprehensive reform of social security and tax systems jointly undertaken by the DPJ, the LDP and Komeito, all the LDP candidates have committed to adhering with the three-party accord. This is a natural course of action.
５氏とも、民主、自民、公明の３党で進めた社会保障・税一体改革について、合意を順守することを言明した。当然だろう。
===
New Diet rules required
◆国会のルールを見直せ◆
The DPJ-LDP-Komeito tripartite agreement must be kept intact. The three parties should jointly address such key tasks as working out how to lower the financial burdens low-income earners will face when the consumption tax rate is increased, and enhance efficiency in budget appropriations for ballooning social security expenditures.
民自公路線は今後も堅持し、消費増税に伴う低所得者対策や膨張する社会保障費の効率化といった課題に取り組む必要がある。
Abe said the proposed consumption tax hike "could put a damper on the economy if it's implemented at the wrong time," indicating the possibility he would postpone the first stage of the tax raise in April 2014.
ただ、安倍氏は消費税率引き上げに関し、「時期を間違えると経済の腰を折ってしまう」と述べ、２０１４年４月段階の増税先送りの可能性を示唆した。
Although due consideration should be paid to national economic conditions before the tax increase, the importance of reconstructing the deficit-ridden government finances--a problem left alone for too long--should never be taken lightly.
増税前に経済状況を考慮することは必要だが、長年の懸案である財政再建を軽視することがあってはならない。
Ishiba said the government-sponsored bill for enabling the issuance of deficit-covering bonds "shouldn't be used as a tool in a power struggle" between the parties. We agree entirely.
赤字国債発行を可能とする特例公債法案について、石破氏は「政争の具に使うべきではない」と提案した。もっともである。
This bill must not be used as a bargaining chip by the LDP as it pushes for the early dissolution of the lower house for a general election.
衆院解散・総選挙を求める駆け引きに使うべきではない。
In the divided Diet, where the opposition holds a majority in the upper house while the ruling bloc controls the lower house, what can be done so this nation has "politics capable of making decisions"?
衆参ねじれ国会の下で、「決められる政治」をどう実現していくのか。
Deeper discussions should be held about how to formulate new rules for running Diet affairs.
新たな国会のルールづくりの論議も深めてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 16, 2012)
（2012年9月16日01時15分 読売新聞）
2012/09/16
尖閣国有化 中国の圧力外交は行き過ぎだ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Sep. 15, 2012)
China should not go too far in its response over Senkakus
尖閣国有化 中国の圧力外交は行き過ぎだ（9月14日付・読売社説）
China is escalating its opposition to the Japanese government's nationalization of the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, over which China claims sovereignty.
日本政府が沖縄県の尖閣諸島を国有化したことに対し、領有権を主張する中国が反発をエスカレートさせている。
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao stressed that Beijing would never concede, even half a step, on issues concerning what it claims as its sovereign and territorial rights.
温家宝首相は「主権、領土の問題で半歩たりとも譲ることは絶対にない」と強調した。
The Chinese Defense Ministry said the Chinese government and military would reserve the right to take appropriate measures. They apparently aim to unnerve Japan and force it to cancel the purchase of the islands.
国防省は「中国政府と軍は相応の措置をとる権利を留保する」とまで主張している。日本を震えあがらせて、国有化の撤回に追い込みたい狙いがあるのだろう。
There is no doubt that China's leaders cannot allow themselves to appear weak-kneed toward Japan given domestic circumstances dominated by the Chinese Communist Party's upcoming National Congress, in which the nation's new leadership will be installed.
指導部が交代する共産党大会を間近に控え、対日弱腰姿勢を見せられない国内事情があるのは間違いない。
Will China repeat the reckless measures it took against Japan two years ago, in the wake of the collision incident involving a Chinese trawler and Japan Coast Guard patrol vessels? Beijing at that time imposed stricter restrictions on the export of rare earth minerals. If China wishes to call itself a responsible major power in the international community, it should restrain itself from imposing excessive diplomatic pressures.
中国は、２年前の中国漁船衝突事件後に実施したレアアース（希土類）の輸出規制強化のような、なりふり構わぬ対抗措置を繰り返すのだろうか。国際社会の責任ある大国だと自任するなら、度を越した圧力外交は自制すべきだ。
===
No doubt that isles are Japanese
Japan maintains that a territorial dispute over the Senkaku Islands does not exist. It was a matter of course that Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba firmly refuted China's claim, saying, "The Senkaku Islands are inherent territories of our nation, and this is a fact without doubts in light of international law and in historic terms."
尖閣諸島を巡る領土問題は存在しないというのが日本の立場だ。玄葉外相が「尖閣諸島は我が国固有の領土であり、国際法上も歴史的にも疑いのない事実だ」と毅然(きぜん)と反論したのは当然である。
Regarding the nationalization of the islands, the Japanese government has explained that it was "for peaceful and stable maintenance and management" of the islands. It is important that the government persistently make the case to the international community.
国有化について日本政府は「平穏かつ安定的な維持・管理を行うため」と説明してきたが、今後もこうした主張を粘り強く国際社会に訴えていくことが重要だ。
The Japanese government must beef up its vigilance over actions taken by China in an attempt to undermine Japan's effective control over the Senkaku Islands. Chinese state media recently reported that two patrol ships of China's State Oceanic Administration had started patrol activities in waters near the islands.
日本政府は、尖閣諸島の実効支配を崩そうとする中国の動きには警戒を強めなければならない。中国国営メディアは、国家海洋局の巡視船２隻が周辺海域で巡視活動を開始したと報じている。
A scenario in which many patrol ships and armored fishing boats enter Japan's territorial waters and take other demonstrative actions cannot be excluded from possibility.
今後、多数の巡視船や武装した漁船が領海侵犯などの示威行動を取る可能性も排除できない。
===
Coast guard must be strengthened
The Japanese government needs to expand and strengthen the Japan Coast Guard's structural functions so that all possible measures can be taken to ensure security in the nation's territorial waters.
日本政府は海上保安庁の体制を拡充・強化し、領海警備に万全を期す必要がある。
Growing anti-Japan sentiment in China also is a cause of concern. With the approach of the Sept. 18 anniversary of the Liutiaohu Incident, which triggered the Manchurian Incident, calls to join anti-Japan protests have been made through the Internet across China.
中国国内の反日機運の高まりも懸念材料だ。満州事変の発端となった柳条湖事件が起きた９月１８日にかけ、各地でネットを通じて反日デモが呼びかけられている。
Japanese communities in China also have been shaken by developments such as the postponement of an athletic meet at a local Japanese school. We urge Chinese authorities to act quickly to calm such situations and ensure the safety of Japanese citizens and companies there.
日本人学校の運動会が延期になるなど、邦人社会に動揺も広がっている。中国当局には、事態の沈静化を急ぎ、邦人や日系企業の安全確保に努めてもらいたい。
It is also problematic that a number of exchange programs have been suspended. China told a group of about 30 Japanese lawmakers from different parties to postpone their visit to Beijing to attend events to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the normalization of Japan-China diplomatic relations. An increasing number of Chinese tourists have also canceled their plans to visit Japan.
交流事業の停止が相次いでいるのも問題だ。日中国交正常化４０周年の記念行事に出席するため超党派の国会議員ら約３０人が予定していた北京訪問が中国側から延期を通告された。訪日観光客のキャンセルも広がりを見せている。
Japan and China have historical ties. For the sake of further development of bilateral relations, China should not unilaterally close the channels of exchange and communications.
日中両国は歴史的なつながりを持っている。両国関係の発展のために、一方的に交流や意思疎通のルートを閉ざしてはならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 14, 2012)
（2012年9月14日01時24分 読売新聞）
China should not go too far in its response over Senkakus
尖閣国有化 中国の圧力外交は行き過ぎだ（9月14日付・読売社説）
China is escalating its opposition to the Japanese government's nationalization of the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, over which China claims sovereignty.
日本政府が沖縄県の尖閣諸島を国有化したことに対し、領有権を主張する中国が反発をエスカレートさせている。
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao stressed that Beijing would never concede, even half a step, on issues concerning what it claims as its sovereign and territorial rights.
温家宝首相は「主権、領土の問題で半歩たりとも譲ることは絶対にない」と強調した。
The Chinese Defense Ministry said the Chinese government and military would reserve the right to take appropriate measures. They apparently aim to unnerve Japan and force it to cancel the purchase of the islands.
国防省は「中国政府と軍は相応の措置をとる権利を留保する」とまで主張している。日本を震えあがらせて、国有化の撤回に追い込みたい狙いがあるのだろう。
There is no doubt that China's leaders cannot allow themselves to appear weak-kneed toward Japan given domestic circumstances dominated by the Chinese Communist Party's upcoming National Congress, in which the nation's new leadership will be installed.
指導部が交代する共産党大会を間近に控え、対日弱腰姿勢を見せられない国内事情があるのは間違いない。
Will China repeat the reckless measures it took against Japan two years ago, in the wake of the collision incident involving a Chinese trawler and Japan Coast Guard patrol vessels? Beijing at that time imposed stricter restrictions on the export of rare earth minerals. If China wishes to call itself a responsible major power in the international community, it should restrain itself from imposing excessive diplomatic pressures.
中国は、２年前の中国漁船衝突事件後に実施したレアアース（希土類）の輸出規制強化のような、なりふり構わぬ対抗措置を繰り返すのだろうか。国際社会の責任ある大国だと自任するなら、度を越した圧力外交は自制すべきだ。
===
No doubt that isles are Japanese
Japan maintains that a territorial dispute over the Senkaku Islands does not exist. It was a matter of course that Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba firmly refuted China's claim, saying, "The Senkaku Islands are inherent territories of our nation, and this is a fact without doubts in light of international law and in historic terms."
尖閣諸島を巡る領土問題は存在しないというのが日本の立場だ。玄葉外相が「尖閣諸島は我が国固有の領土であり、国際法上も歴史的にも疑いのない事実だ」と毅然(きぜん)と反論したのは当然である。
Regarding the nationalization of the islands, the Japanese government has explained that it was "for peaceful and stable maintenance and management" of the islands. It is important that the government persistently make the case to the international community.
国有化について日本政府は「平穏かつ安定的な維持・管理を行うため」と説明してきたが、今後もこうした主張を粘り強く国際社会に訴えていくことが重要だ。
The Japanese government must beef up its vigilance over actions taken by China in an attempt to undermine Japan's effective control over the Senkaku Islands. Chinese state media recently reported that two patrol ships of China's State Oceanic Administration had started patrol activities in waters near the islands.
日本政府は、尖閣諸島の実効支配を崩そうとする中国の動きには警戒を強めなければならない。中国国営メディアは、国家海洋局の巡視船２隻が周辺海域で巡視活動を開始したと報じている。
A scenario in which many patrol ships and armored fishing boats enter Japan's territorial waters and take other demonstrative actions cannot be excluded from possibility.
今後、多数の巡視船や武装した漁船が領海侵犯などの示威行動を取る可能性も排除できない。
===
Coast guard must be strengthened
The Japanese government needs to expand and strengthen the Japan Coast Guard's structural functions so that all possible measures can be taken to ensure security in the nation's territorial waters.
日本政府は海上保安庁の体制を拡充・強化し、領海警備に万全を期す必要がある。
Growing anti-Japan sentiment in China also is a cause of concern. With the approach of the Sept. 18 anniversary of the Liutiaohu Incident, which triggered the Manchurian Incident, calls to join anti-Japan protests have been made through the Internet across China.
中国国内の反日機運の高まりも懸念材料だ。満州事変の発端となった柳条湖事件が起きた９月１８日にかけ、各地でネットを通じて反日デモが呼びかけられている。
Japanese communities in China also have been shaken by developments such as the postponement of an athletic meet at a local Japanese school. We urge Chinese authorities to act quickly to calm such situations and ensure the safety of Japanese citizens and companies there.
日本人学校の運動会が延期になるなど、邦人社会に動揺も広がっている。中国当局には、事態の沈静化を急ぎ、邦人や日系企業の安全確保に努めてもらいたい。
It is also problematic that a number of exchange programs have been suspended. China told a group of about 30 Japanese lawmakers from different parties to postpone their visit to Beijing to attend events to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the normalization of Japan-China diplomatic relations. An increasing number of Chinese tourists have also canceled their plans to visit Japan.
交流事業の停止が相次いでいるのも問題だ。日中国交正常化４０周年の記念行事に出席するため超党派の国会議員ら約３０人が予定していた北京訪問が中国側から延期を通告された。訪日観光客のキャンセルも広がりを見せている。
Japan and China have historical ties. For the sake of further development of bilateral relations, China should not unilaterally close the channels of exchange and communications.
日中両国は歴史的なつながりを持っている。両国関係の発展のために、一方的に交流や意思疎通のルートを閉ざしてはならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 14, 2012)
（2012年9月14日01時24分 読売新聞）
2012/09/15
「日本維新の会」 国政改革への道筋が見えない
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Sep. 14, 2012)
Hashimoto's new party lacks road map to reform natl politics
「日本維新の会」 国政改革への道筋が見えない（9月13日付・読売社説）
Nippon Ishin no Kai, or the Japan Restoration Party, is poised to become a political force to be reckoned with, but it cannot be denied that its policies and management structure were hastily formulated.
侮れない政治勢力になりつつあるが、政策も運営体制も急ごしらえの感は否めない。
Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto, leader of the regional political group Osaka Ishin no Kai (Osaka restoration group), declared the launch of the new party during a fund-raiser in Osaka on Wednesday.
地域政党・大阪維新の会代表の橋下徹大阪市長が、大阪市で党の政治資金パーティーを開き、新党「日本維新の会」結成を宣言した。
Hashimoto stressed the significance of Osaka Ishin no Kai's foray into national politics. "The nation's systems and laws are barriers we hit when we try to do something," Hashimoto said. "If we carry out Osaka's reform in the true sense, revising the laws is our only choice."
橋下氏は、「何かをやろうとするとぶつかる壁が国の制度と法律だ。本当の意味で大阪の改革をやろうと思えば、法改正しかない」と国政進出の意義を語った。
Hashimoto said the new party will aim to win "a majority" of the 480 seats in the next House of Representatives election.
日本維新は、次期衆院選で「過半数」獲得を目指すという。
However, it is unnecessary for Hashimoto to advance into national politics if all he wants is to realize his Osaka metropolis plan. His rash eagerness, or big talk, is what makes him stand out. But what does he plan to achieve in national politics, and how? He needs to present a convincing vision.
だが、「大阪都」構想を実現するためだけなら、何も国政に進出する必要はない。橋下氏は、“大風呂敷”とも言える意欲ばかりが先走っているように見える。国政で何をどう実現するのか、説得力のある見解を示す必要がある。
===
Platform grandiose but vague
Osaka Ishin no Kai has changed its campaign pledges for the next lower house election, dubbed "Ishin Hassaku" (eight-point policy statement), to the "platform" of the new party. Hashimoto said this is because the listed points represent the new party's sense of values.
維新側は、これまで次期衆院選の公約としてきた「維新八策」を「綱領」に変更した。党の価値観を示すものだからだという。
Ishin Hassaku contains such phrases as "self-sustaining nation" and "democracy that is capable of making decisions and takes responsibility," but these abstract expressions do not tell what kind of nation the new party will pursue. The ideals should be explained in a more understandable way.
維新八策には「自立する国家」「決定でき、責任を負う民主主義」といった言葉が並んでいるが、こうした抽象的な表現からは、日本維新がどんな国家を目指すのかが伝わってこない。理念はもっとわかりやすく説明すべきだ。
Ishin Hassaku is a mix of slogan-like goals--such as the introduction of a system to elect prime ministers by popular vote, which would require a constitutional amendment, and halving the number of lower house seats--and policies for social security, education and employment. The mid- and long-term tasks and immediate policy challenges must be properly sorted out.
維新八策には、憲法改正を伴う首相公選制導入や、衆院の議員定数半減などスローガンのような目標と、社会保障、教育、雇用などの政策が混在している。中長期と当面の政策課題を、きちんと仕分けしなければなるまい。
Hashimoto stressed that elections are the only way to solve problems that cannot be solved by bureaucrats and problems that divide public opinion. If that is so, he should present specifically what pledges the new party will make for the next lower house election.
橋下氏は「役人では解決できない問題、国論を二分する問題は、選挙で解決するしかない」と強調した。それでは、次期衆院選で具体的に何を公約するのか、明示してもらいたい。
===
A highly unusual structure
The new party has an extremely peculiar structure. Its headquarters will be in Osaka. Because seven Diet members, including former Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Yorihisa Matsuno, will join it, the new party will meet a major requirement to be recognized as an official national political party, which must have at least five lawmakers. The party's Diet members and its groups of local assembly members, including Osaka Ishin no Kai, will be on equal terms with each other.
日本維新は、極めて特異な体制をとる。党本部を大阪に置く。松野頼久元官房副長官ら現職国会議員７人が新党に参加するため、政党要件は満たされる。国会議員団と大阪維新の会など地方議員団は、並列の関係にする方針だ。
Hashimoto will double as both Osaka mayor and leader of the new party, and has said he will not run in the upcoming lower house election. This is probably because it has been less than one year since Hashimoto transitioned from Osaka governor to Osaka mayor and his commitment to the Osaka metropolis plan, the biggest item on his political agenda, is expected to enter a difficult phase in which he will work on such tasks as dividing cities into special wards and making relevant financial resource arrangements.
橋下氏は党代表と大阪市長を兼務し、衆院選には立候補しないという。府知事から市長に転身して１年足らずで、最大の政治課題である大阪都構想への取り組みも、これから区割りや財源調整など難しい局面に入るからだろう。
There is widespread speculation over the possibility that Hashimoto's new party will make great strides, becoming the force holding the key to cooperation between political parties after the lower house election.
日本維新は衆院選後、政党間の連携のカギを握る勢力に躍進する可能性もとりざたされている。
Hashimoto said, "I'll cut down the amount of time I spend for myself, and use it for national politics." However, will it really be possible for Hashimoto, in Osaka, to control rookie lawmakers who lack experience in politics?
橋下氏は、「自分の時間を削って国政に充てる」と言うが、政治経験のない新人議員らを大阪からコントロールできるだろうか。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 13, 2012)
（2012年9月13日01時36分 読売新聞）
Hashimoto's new party lacks road map to reform natl politics
「日本維新の会」 国政改革への道筋が見えない（9月13日付・読売社説）
Nippon Ishin no Kai, or the Japan Restoration Party, is poised to become a political force to be reckoned with, but it cannot be denied that its policies and management structure were hastily formulated.
侮れない政治勢力になりつつあるが、政策も運営体制も急ごしらえの感は否めない。
Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto, leader of the regional political group Osaka Ishin no Kai (Osaka restoration group), declared the launch of the new party during a fund-raiser in Osaka on Wednesday.
地域政党・大阪維新の会代表の橋下徹大阪市長が、大阪市で党の政治資金パーティーを開き、新党「日本維新の会」結成を宣言した。
Hashimoto stressed the significance of Osaka Ishin no Kai's foray into national politics. "The nation's systems and laws are barriers we hit when we try to do something," Hashimoto said. "If we carry out Osaka's reform in the true sense, revising the laws is our only choice."
橋下氏は、「何かをやろうとするとぶつかる壁が国の制度と法律だ。本当の意味で大阪の改革をやろうと思えば、法改正しかない」と国政進出の意義を語った。
Hashimoto said the new party will aim to win "a majority" of the 480 seats in the next House of Representatives election.
日本維新は、次期衆院選で「過半数」獲得を目指すという。
However, it is unnecessary for Hashimoto to advance into national politics if all he wants is to realize his Osaka metropolis plan. His rash eagerness, or big talk, is what makes him stand out. But what does he plan to achieve in national politics, and how? He needs to present a convincing vision.
だが、「大阪都」構想を実現するためだけなら、何も国政に進出する必要はない。橋下氏は、“大風呂敷”とも言える意欲ばかりが先走っているように見える。国政で何をどう実現するのか、説得力のある見解を示す必要がある。
===
Platform grandiose but vague
Osaka Ishin no Kai has changed its campaign pledges for the next lower house election, dubbed "Ishin Hassaku" (eight-point policy statement), to the "platform" of the new party. Hashimoto said this is because the listed points represent the new party's sense of values.
維新側は、これまで次期衆院選の公約としてきた「維新八策」を「綱領」に変更した。党の価値観を示すものだからだという。
Ishin Hassaku contains such phrases as "self-sustaining nation" and "democracy that is capable of making decisions and takes responsibility," but these abstract expressions do not tell what kind of nation the new party will pursue. The ideals should be explained in a more understandable way.
維新八策には「自立する国家」「決定でき、責任を負う民主主義」といった言葉が並んでいるが、こうした抽象的な表現からは、日本維新がどんな国家を目指すのかが伝わってこない。理念はもっとわかりやすく説明すべきだ。
Ishin Hassaku is a mix of slogan-like goals--such as the introduction of a system to elect prime ministers by popular vote, which would require a constitutional amendment, and halving the number of lower house seats--and policies for social security, education and employment. The mid- and long-term tasks and immediate policy challenges must be properly sorted out.
維新八策には、憲法改正を伴う首相公選制導入や、衆院の議員定数半減などスローガンのような目標と、社会保障、教育、雇用などの政策が混在している。中長期と当面の政策課題を、きちんと仕分けしなければなるまい。
Hashimoto stressed that elections are the only way to solve problems that cannot be solved by bureaucrats and problems that divide public opinion. If that is so, he should present specifically what pledges the new party will make for the next lower house election.
橋下氏は「役人では解決できない問題、国論を二分する問題は、選挙で解決するしかない」と強調した。それでは、次期衆院選で具体的に何を公約するのか、明示してもらいたい。
===
A highly unusual structure
The new party has an extremely peculiar structure. Its headquarters will be in Osaka. Because seven Diet members, including former Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Yorihisa Matsuno, will join it, the new party will meet a major requirement to be recognized as an official national political party, which must have at least five lawmakers. The party's Diet members and its groups of local assembly members, including Osaka Ishin no Kai, will be on equal terms with each other.
日本維新は、極めて特異な体制をとる。党本部を大阪に置く。松野頼久元官房副長官ら現職国会議員７人が新党に参加するため、政党要件は満たされる。国会議員団と大阪維新の会など地方議員団は、並列の関係にする方針だ。
Hashimoto will double as both Osaka mayor and leader of the new party, and has said he will not run in the upcoming lower house election. This is probably because it has been less than one year since Hashimoto transitioned from Osaka governor to Osaka mayor and his commitment to the Osaka metropolis plan, the biggest item on his political agenda, is expected to enter a difficult phase in which he will work on such tasks as dividing cities into special wards and making relevant financial resource arrangements.
橋下氏は党代表と大阪市長を兼務し、衆院選には立候補しないという。府知事から市長に転身して１年足らずで、最大の政治課題である大阪都構想への取り組みも、これから区割りや財源調整など難しい局面に入るからだろう。
There is widespread speculation over the possibility that Hashimoto's new party will make great strides, becoming the force holding the key to cooperation between political parties after the lower house election.
日本維新は衆院選後、政党間の連携のカギを握る勢力に躍進する可能性もとりざたされている。
Hashimoto said, "I'll cut down the amount of time I spend for myself, and use it for national politics." However, will it really be possible for Hashimoto, in Osaka, to control rookie lawmakers who lack experience in politics?
橋下氏は、「自分の時間を削って国政に充てる」と言うが、政治経験のない新人議員らを大阪からコントロールできるだろうか。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 13, 2012)
（2012年9月13日01時36分 読売新聞）
2012/09/14
自民党総裁選 「野党ぼけ」の克服が急務だ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Sep. 13, 2012)
LDP must quickly recover from 'opposition slumber'
自民党総裁選 「野党ぼけ」の克服が急務だ（9月12日付・読売社説）
What will the Liberal Democratic Party aim to do if it recaptures power, and how will it achieve these objectives?
政権を奪還した後に自民党は何をどう実現するのか。
We urge the candidates in the party's presidential election to explain their views and policy stances, given that they aspire to grab the reins of this nation.
日本のかじ取りを目指す以上、見識や政策で競い合うべきだ。
LDP Secretary General Nobuteru Ishihara has announced he will run in the party race. Former Chief Cabinet Secretary Nobutaka Machimura and former LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Shigeru Ishiba have already declared their candidacies. Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and LDP Policy Research Council Acting Chairman Yoshimasa Hayashi also expressed their intention to throw their hats in the ring.
自民党総裁選に、石原幹事長が出馬を表明した。町村信孝元官房長官、石破茂前政調会長が既に表明し、安倍元首相、林芳正政調会長代理も意欲を示す。
The LDP race will choose who might become the prime minister, depending on the outcome of the next House of Representatives election. It is only natural that the race is heating up.
次期衆院選の結果次第では、首相になる可能性が高い総裁の選出だ。白熱するのも当然である。
However, we consider it problematic that LDP members are preoccupied with jockeying for position among party factions and figuring out how many party lawmakers support each candidate.
だが、派閥や国会議員間の数合わせの動きばかりが先行しているのはどうしたことか。
Current LDP President Sadakazu Tanigaki piled so much pressure on the two previous prime ministers of the Democratic Party of Japan--Yukio Hatoyama and Naoto Kan--that they stepped down. The LDP won the previous House of Councillors election, a result that created a divided Diet in which the opposition controls the upper house.
谷垣総裁は鳩山、菅両首相を退陣に追い込み、先の参院選で勝利してねじれ国会をもたらした。
===
Tanigaki frozen out
It was commendable that Tanigaki, as leader of the largest opposition party, joined hands with the DPJ to pass bills on integrated reform of the social security and tax systems, the main pillar of which is a consumption tax rate increase.
野党第１党の党首として民主党に協力し、消費税率の引き上げを柱とする社会保障・税一体改革関連法を成立させたことは画期的だった。
In the latest Yomiuri Shimbun opinion survey, 21 percent of respondents--the biggest proportion--said they planned to vote for the LDP in the proportional representation segment of the next lower house election.
最新の読売新聞の世論調査では、次期衆院選の比例選投票先で、自民党は２１％でトップだ。
Nevertheless, Tanigaki was considered to be lacking something as the party's face for the coming election, and thus decided he had no option but to stay out of the party race. He must feel desperately disappointed to have come this close to guiding the party to its long-sought goal of returning to power.
それでも、「選挙の顔」に物足りないと評価され、総裁選出馬断念に追い込まれた。念願の政権復帰に手が届く状況にまで来て、さぞかし無念だっただろう。
Tanigaki's fall was in part due to his failure to hammer out policies representative of the LDP, other than the integrated reform. He was unable to attract wide support.
背景には、一体改革以外に自民党らしい政策を打ち出せず、支持に広がりを欠いたことがある。
Tanigaki became increasingly isolated when senior LDP figures such as former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori and Makoto Koga, who heads a party faction, turned their back on him over his handling of party affairs.
谷垣氏は、党運営を巡って、森元首相や古賀派の古賀誠会長らの不興を買い、外堀を埋められた。
Tanigaki led the LDP to support a recent censure motion submitted by several opposition parties against Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda--a motion that also criticized the LDP for approving the consumption tax rate increase. The party was accused of "self-condemnation."
消費増税を実現した自民党をも批判する首相問責決議に対し、自民党が賛成することを主導して「自己否定」との批判も浴びた。
The LDP's policy goals and vision for after it returns to power will be scrutinized afresh during the presidential race. Party members should be well aware that revival of the party, which Tanigaki aimed for, has only been half completed.
総裁選では、自民党の政権構想や政策が改めて問われよう。谷垣氏が目指した「党再生」は、道半ばであることを自覚すべきだ。
===
Take stand on nuclear power
Ishihara said his "mission is to realize policy measures and courses" the party promoted under Tanigaki's leadership. It would be disconcerting if the party, after a change in leadership, forgets about implementing the integrated reform in line with the accord it reached with the DPJ and New Komeito.
石原氏は、谷垣氏の下で進めてきた「政策、路線の実現が使命」と述べた。総裁が代わっても民自公路線による一体改革の実現を忘れてもらっては困る。
The LDP for many years steered an administration that was pro-nuclear energy. Is it right for the party to stand idly by while the DPJ has set out a "zero nuclear power" policy direction? We urge the LDP to propose realistic energy policies.
自民党は長年、原子力行政を推進してきたのに、「原発ゼロ」の方向を提言した民主党を傍観していいのか。現実的なエネルギー政策を提案してもらいたい。
The LDP is irresponsible for opposing the nation's possible participation in negotiations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade framework if abolishing tariffs "without sanctuary" is a precondition. The party should also debate the matter from the viewpoint of a growth strategy through expanded free trade.
自民党が、環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）について「聖域なき関税撤廃を前提にする交渉参加は反対」とするのは無責任だ。自由貿易拡大による成長戦略の観点からも是非を論ずべきだろう。
Rebuilding diplomatic relations with China, South Korea and Russia, and the deployment of the U.S. Marine Corps' new Osprey transport aircraft also are pressing issues that need to be addressed.
対中・韓・露外交の立て直しや米海兵隊の新型輸送機オスプレイ配備も差し迫った課題だ。
Considering these issues after it takes power will be too late. During the LDP election, the party urgently needs to awaken from its "opposition slumber" in which it devoted itself only to lobbing criticism around and failed to make its own decisions.
政権に就いてから考えるのでは遅すぎる。総裁選を通じ、批判するだけで自らは判断しない“野党ぼけ”の克服が急務である。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 12, 2012)
（2012年9月12日01時50分 読売新聞）
LDP must quickly recover from 'opposition slumber'
自民党総裁選 「野党ぼけ」の克服が急務だ（9月12日付・読売社説）
What will the Liberal Democratic Party aim to do if it recaptures power, and how will it achieve these objectives?
政権を奪還した後に自民党は何をどう実現するのか。
We urge the candidates in the party's presidential election to explain their views and policy stances, given that they aspire to grab the reins of this nation.
日本のかじ取りを目指す以上、見識や政策で競い合うべきだ。
LDP Secretary General Nobuteru Ishihara has announced he will run in the party race. Former Chief Cabinet Secretary Nobutaka Machimura and former LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Shigeru Ishiba have already declared their candidacies. Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and LDP Policy Research Council Acting Chairman Yoshimasa Hayashi also expressed their intention to throw their hats in the ring.
自民党総裁選に、石原幹事長が出馬を表明した。町村信孝元官房長官、石破茂前政調会長が既に表明し、安倍元首相、林芳正政調会長代理も意欲を示す。
The LDP race will choose who might become the prime minister, depending on the outcome of the next House of Representatives election. It is only natural that the race is heating up.
次期衆院選の結果次第では、首相になる可能性が高い総裁の選出だ。白熱するのも当然である。
However, we consider it problematic that LDP members are preoccupied with jockeying for position among party factions and figuring out how many party lawmakers support each candidate.
だが、派閥や国会議員間の数合わせの動きばかりが先行しているのはどうしたことか。
Current LDP President Sadakazu Tanigaki piled so much pressure on the two previous prime ministers of the Democratic Party of Japan--Yukio Hatoyama and Naoto Kan--that they stepped down. The LDP won the previous House of Councillors election, a result that created a divided Diet in which the opposition controls the upper house.
谷垣総裁は鳩山、菅両首相を退陣に追い込み、先の参院選で勝利してねじれ国会をもたらした。
===
Tanigaki frozen out
It was commendable that Tanigaki, as leader of the largest opposition party, joined hands with the DPJ to pass bills on integrated reform of the social security and tax systems, the main pillar of which is a consumption tax rate increase.
野党第１党の党首として民主党に協力し、消費税率の引き上げを柱とする社会保障・税一体改革関連法を成立させたことは画期的だった。
In the latest Yomiuri Shimbun opinion survey, 21 percent of respondents--the biggest proportion--said they planned to vote for the LDP in the proportional representation segment of the next lower house election.
最新の読売新聞の世論調査では、次期衆院選の比例選投票先で、自民党は２１％でトップだ。
Nevertheless, Tanigaki was considered to be lacking something as the party's face for the coming election, and thus decided he had no option but to stay out of the party race. He must feel desperately disappointed to have come this close to guiding the party to its long-sought goal of returning to power.
それでも、「選挙の顔」に物足りないと評価され、総裁選出馬断念に追い込まれた。念願の政権復帰に手が届く状況にまで来て、さぞかし無念だっただろう。
Tanigaki's fall was in part due to his failure to hammer out policies representative of the LDP, other than the integrated reform. He was unable to attract wide support.
背景には、一体改革以外に自民党らしい政策を打ち出せず、支持に広がりを欠いたことがある。
Tanigaki became increasingly isolated when senior LDP figures such as former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori and Makoto Koga, who heads a party faction, turned their back on him over his handling of party affairs.
谷垣氏は、党運営を巡って、森元首相や古賀派の古賀誠会長らの不興を買い、外堀を埋められた。
Tanigaki led the LDP to support a recent censure motion submitted by several opposition parties against Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda--a motion that also criticized the LDP for approving the consumption tax rate increase. The party was accused of "self-condemnation."
消費増税を実現した自民党をも批判する首相問責決議に対し、自民党が賛成することを主導して「自己否定」との批判も浴びた。
The LDP's policy goals and vision for after it returns to power will be scrutinized afresh during the presidential race. Party members should be well aware that revival of the party, which Tanigaki aimed for, has only been half completed.
総裁選では、自民党の政権構想や政策が改めて問われよう。谷垣氏が目指した「党再生」は、道半ばであることを自覚すべきだ。
===
Take stand on nuclear power
Ishihara said his "mission is to realize policy measures and courses" the party promoted under Tanigaki's leadership. It would be disconcerting if the party, after a change in leadership, forgets about implementing the integrated reform in line with the accord it reached with the DPJ and New Komeito.
石原氏は、谷垣氏の下で進めてきた「政策、路線の実現が使命」と述べた。総裁が代わっても民自公路線による一体改革の実現を忘れてもらっては困る。
The LDP for many years steered an administration that was pro-nuclear energy. Is it right for the party to stand idly by while the DPJ has set out a "zero nuclear power" policy direction? We urge the LDP to propose realistic energy policies.
自民党は長年、原子力行政を推進してきたのに、「原発ゼロ」の方向を提言した民主党を傍観していいのか。現実的なエネルギー政策を提案してもらいたい。
The LDP is irresponsible for opposing the nation's possible participation in negotiations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade framework if abolishing tariffs "without sanctuary" is a precondition. The party should also debate the matter from the viewpoint of a growth strategy through expanded free trade.
自民党が、環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）について「聖域なき関税撤廃を前提にする交渉参加は反対」とするのは無責任だ。自由貿易拡大による成長戦略の観点からも是非を論ずべきだろう。
Rebuilding diplomatic relations with China, South Korea and Russia, and the deployment of the U.S. Marine Corps' new Osprey transport aircraft also are pressing issues that need to be addressed.
対中・韓・露外交の立て直しや米海兵隊の新型輸送機オスプレイ配備も差し迫った課題だ。
Considering these issues after it takes power will be too late. During the LDP election, the party urgently needs to awaken from its "opposition slumber" in which it devoted itself only to lobbing criticism around and failed to make its own decisions.
政権に就いてから考えるのでは遅すぎる。総裁選を通じ、批判するだけで自らは判断しない“野党ぼけ”の克服が急務である。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Sept. 12, 2012)
（2012年9月12日01時50分 読売新聞）
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