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2012年04月23日
２閣僚問責可決 自民の審議拒否は無理がある
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Apr. 22, 2012)
LDP's boycott of Diet deliberations unreasonable
２閣僚問責可決 自民の審議拒否は無理がある（4月21日付・読売社説）
The House of Councillors passed censure motions against Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Minister Takeshi Maeda and Defense Minister Naoki Tanaka by majority votes at its plenary session on Friday.
前田国土交通相と田中防衛相に対する問責決議が、参院本会議で野党の賛成多数により可決された。
This raised to six the total number of Cabinet ministers censured in the 2-1/2 years since the Democratic Party of Japan took power.
民主党政権になってから２年半、問責された閣僚は６人にのぼる。
Even if adopted, a censure motion in the upper house has no legally binding power, unlike no-confidence motions in the House of Representatives. Under the banner of the nonbinding censure motions, however, the opposition parties are demanding Maeda and Tanaka be replaced.
衆院の不信任決議と違って、参院の問責決議には法的拘束力がない。それなのに、野党は錦の御旗のようにして閣僚交代を迫る。
Such a malady, which is possible only in a divided Diet, should be rooted out.
衆参ねじれ国会を背景にした、こんな悪弊は断ち切るべきである。
The attitude of the Liberal Democratic Party is particularly problematic. The main opposition party has said it will boycott all deliberations until Maeda and Tanaka resign.
とくに問題なのは自民党だ。前田、田中両氏が辞任するまで全面的に審議を拒否するという。
The LDP apparently expects Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda to agree to Maeda and Tanaka's dismissal, since he seeks the party's cooperation in enacting the bill to raise the consumption tax rate.
自民党は、野田首相が消費税率引き上げ関連法案で自民党に協力を求めている以上、両氏の更迭に応じると踏んでいるのだろう。
While in power, however, the LDP criticized opposition parties that boycotted Diet deliberations as "walking out on lawmakers' jobs." Has the LDP forgotten what it said?
だが、自民党は政権の座にあった時には、「審議拒否は国会議員の職場放棄」と野党を批判していた。その言葉を忘れたのか。
===
Futile conflict
It would not be so serious if the LDP boycotted deliberations at the final stage of the Diet session. However, the session is still only halfway completed and has a mountain of important bills to deliberate. Even some members of the party, including former LDP Secretary General Makoto Koga, have voiced doubt over the decision to boycott deliberations.
国会終盤ならまだしも、重要法案の山積する会期半ばである。古賀誠元幹事長ら党内からも審議拒否を疑問視する声が出ている。
New Komeito said it would boycott deliberations only at committees that Maeda and Tanaka have jurisdiction over. The opposition parties' failure to move in step with one another shows the LDP's decision to boycott all Diet deliberations is unreasonable.
公明党は、審議拒否を前田、田中両氏が所管する委員会にとどめる。野党の足並みの乱れを見ても、自民党の全面審議拒否に無理があるのは明らかだ。
In the past, the DPJ took advantage of censure motions many times. Even if the LDP returns to power in the next lower house election, it and Komeito still will not have a majority of seats at the upper house. The DPJ will likely take revenge in the same fashion. Such a futile conflict should not be repeated.
問責決議は、かつて民主党も多用した。仮に自民党が次期衆院選で政権を奪還した場合、参院では公明党を含めても過半数はない。民主党は意趣返ししよう。不毛な争いを繰り返すべきではない。
The prime minister has expressed his intention to keep Maeda and Tanaka at their posts. Noda apparently believes the LDP will have no choice but to return to deliberations if public criticism mounts against their boycott. It is like an endurance contest.
野田首相は、前田、田中両氏を続投させる意向を示している。審議拒否への批判が高まれば、自民党も審議に復帰せざるを得なくなる、との読みもあるのだろう。まさに「我慢比べ」の様相だ。
===
Maeda, Tanaka problematic
However, it is undeniable there are serious problems with Maeda and Tanaka.
ただ、両氏に大きな問題があることは否定できまい。
Maeda signed a document calling for support of a particular candidate in the mayoral election in Gero, Gifu Prefecture, and sent it in an official envelope to a senior member of a local association of construction companies.
前田氏は岐阜県下呂市長選で、特定の立候補予定者への支援を依頼する署名入り文書を建設業協会幹部に公用封筒で送っていた。
The censure motion against him claimed Maeda should not stay at his post because his action violated the Public Offices Election Law, which prohibits preelection campaigning as well as using the influence of one's official position in an election.
問責決議は、この行為を地位利用や事前運動を禁じた公職選挙法に抵触するとし、閣僚にとどまるべきではない、と断じた。
Meanwhile, the censure motion against Tanaka referred to turmoil caused by the government's response to North Korea's ballistic missile launch as "a fiasco that cannot be overlooked."
田中氏に関しては、北朝鮮のミサイル発射に対する対処の混乱を「看過できない失態」とした。
It also said Tanaka is "not nearly qualified" to be defense minster because he has made many mistakes, including his unprofessional responses to questions at the Diet.
素人丸出しの国会答弁など、数々の不手際もあって、防衛相として「資質が著しく欠ける」とも批判している。
It is imperative to hold Noda responsible for appointing Tanaka to the post.
野田首相は、任命責任を問われても仕方がない。
Tanaka is the second censured defense minister in the Noda Cabinet, following Yasuo Ichikawa. Noda has been too naive in his choice of ministers in charge of national security.
野田政権で防衛相への問責は一川保夫氏に続いて２人目だ。安全保障を担う閣僚の人事について、首相の認識は甘過ぎる。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 21, 2012)
（2012年4月21日01時41分 読売新聞）
LDP's boycott of Diet deliberations unreasonable
２閣僚問責可決 自民の審議拒否は無理がある（4月21日付・読売社説）
The House of Councillors passed censure motions against Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Minister Takeshi Maeda and Defense Minister Naoki Tanaka by majority votes at its plenary session on Friday.
前田国土交通相と田中防衛相に対する問責決議が、参院本会議で野党の賛成多数により可決された。
This raised to six the total number of Cabinet ministers censured in the 2-1/2 years since the Democratic Party of Japan took power.
民主党政権になってから２年半、問責された閣僚は６人にのぼる。
Even if adopted, a censure motion in the upper house has no legally binding power, unlike no-confidence motions in the House of Representatives. Under the banner of the nonbinding censure motions, however, the opposition parties are demanding Maeda and Tanaka be replaced.
衆院の不信任決議と違って、参院の問責決議には法的拘束力がない。それなのに、野党は錦の御旗のようにして閣僚交代を迫る。
Such a malady, which is possible only in a divided Diet, should be rooted out.
衆参ねじれ国会を背景にした、こんな悪弊は断ち切るべきである。
The attitude of the Liberal Democratic Party is particularly problematic. The main opposition party has said it will boycott all deliberations until Maeda and Tanaka resign.
とくに問題なのは自民党だ。前田、田中両氏が辞任するまで全面的に審議を拒否するという。
The LDP apparently expects Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda to agree to Maeda and Tanaka's dismissal, since he seeks the party's cooperation in enacting the bill to raise the consumption tax rate.
自民党は、野田首相が消費税率引き上げ関連法案で自民党に協力を求めている以上、両氏の更迭に応じると踏んでいるのだろう。
While in power, however, the LDP criticized opposition parties that boycotted Diet deliberations as "walking out on lawmakers' jobs." Has the LDP forgotten what it said?
だが、自民党は政権の座にあった時には、「審議拒否は国会議員の職場放棄」と野党を批判していた。その言葉を忘れたのか。
===
Futile conflict
It would not be so serious if the LDP boycotted deliberations at the final stage of the Diet session. However, the session is still only halfway completed and has a mountain of important bills to deliberate. Even some members of the party, including former LDP Secretary General Makoto Koga, have voiced doubt over the decision to boycott deliberations.
国会終盤ならまだしも、重要法案の山積する会期半ばである。古賀誠元幹事長ら党内からも審議拒否を疑問視する声が出ている。
New Komeito said it would boycott deliberations only at committees that Maeda and Tanaka have jurisdiction over. The opposition parties' failure to move in step with one another shows the LDP's decision to boycott all Diet deliberations is unreasonable.
公明党は、審議拒否を前田、田中両氏が所管する委員会にとどめる。野党の足並みの乱れを見ても、自民党の全面審議拒否に無理があるのは明らかだ。
In the past, the DPJ took advantage of censure motions many times. Even if the LDP returns to power in the next lower house election, it and Komeito still will not have a majority of seats at the upper house. The DPJ will likely take revenge in the same fashion. Such a futile conflict should not be repeated.
問責決議は、かつて民主党も多用した。仮に自民党が次期衆院選で政権を奪還した場合、参院では公明党を含めても過半数はない。民主党は意趣返ししよう。不毛な争いを繰り返すべきではない。
The prime minister has expressed his intention to keep Maeda and Tanaka at their posts. Noda apparently believes the LDP will have no choice but to return to deliberations if public criticism mounts against their boycott. It is like an endurance contest.
野田首相は、前田、田中両氏を続投させる意向を示している。審議拒否への批判が高まれば、自民党も審議に復帰せざるを得なくなる、との読みもあるのだろう。まさに「我慢比べ」の様相だ。
===
Maeda, Tanaka problematic
However, it is undeniable there are serious problems with Maeda and Tanaka.
ただ、両氏に大きな問題があることは否定できまい。
Maeda signed a document calling for support of a particular candidate in the mayoral election in Gero, Gifu Prefecture, and sent it in an official envelope to a senior member of a local association of construction companies.
前田氏は岐阜県下呂市長選で、特定の立候補予定者への支援を依頼する署名入り文書を建設業協会幹部に公用封筒で送っていた。
The censure motion against him claimed Maeda should not stay at his post because his action violated the Public Offices Election Law, which prohibits preelection campaigning as well as using the influence of one's official position in an election.
問責決議は、この行為を地位利用や事前運動を禁じた公職選挙法に抵触するとし、閣僚にとどまるべきではない、と断じた。
Meanwhile, the censure motion against Tanaka referred to turmoil caused by the government's response to North Korea's ballistic missile launch as "a fiasco that cannot be overlooked."
田中氏に関しては、北朝鮮のミサイル発射に対する対処の混乱を「看過できない失態」とした。
It also said Tanaka is "not nearly qualified" to be defense minster because he has made many mistakes, including his unprofessional responses to questions at the Diet.
素人丸出しの国会答弁など、数々の不手際もあって、防衛相として「資質が著しく欠ける」とも批判している。
It is imperative to hold Noda responsible for appointing Tanaka to the post.
野田首相は、任命責任を問われても仕方がない。
Tanaka is the second censured defense minister in the Noda Cabinet, following Yasuo Ichikawa. Noda has been too naive in his choice of ministers in charge of national security.
野田政権で防衛相への問責は一川保夫氏に続いて２人目だ。安全保障を担う閣僚の人事について、首相の認識は甘過ぎる。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 21, 2012)
（2012年4月21日01時41分 読売新聞）
2012年04月22日
地震想定見直し 首都の減災対策強化を急げ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Apr. 21, 2012)
Tokyo's disaster management plans need urgent upgrade
地震想定見直し 首都の減災対策強化を急げ（4月20日付・読売社説）
The current disaster management system for Tokyo, which experts say is at risk of being struck by a major earthquake, needs to be drastically reviewed.
大地震の危険性が指摘されてきた首都・東京の防災体制を抜本的に見直す必要がある。
In the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake, the Tokyo metropolitan government updated its estimates of the damage a major quake would cause for the first time in six years.
東日本大震災を受け、東京都が地震被害想定を６年ぶりに更新した。
If a quake with its focus in northern Tokyo Bay strikes the metropolitan area, the estimated damage could cause a great number of deaths and injuries. New damage estimates show that 300,000 buildings--about 10 percent of all buildings in Tokyo--could be destroyed by the quake or resulting fires, and about 9,700 people could be killed in the disaster.
直下型の東京湾北部地震が起きると、人的被害は最悪となる。都内の建物の約１割に相当する３０万棟が全壊・焼失して、約９７００人が死亡すると予測している。
The newly estimated death toll is about 1.5 times higher than the previous estimate of about 6,400. The predicted casualties are expected to be enormous.
前回想定した死者数は約６４００人だったが、約１・５倍に膨れ上がった。甚大な被害である。
Such alarming figures have come to light as the latest seismology research predicts strong quakes could occur in an area about 1.5 times greater than previously thought. If the predicted quake occurs in this area, about 70 percent of Tokyo's 23 wards could be struck by tremors registering upper 6 or higher on the Japanese seismic intensity scale. As some areas could be hit by tremors of the highest intensity level of 7, even reinforced concrete buildings could be destroyed or damaged.
地震学の最新研究で、強い揺れが予想される地域が約１・５倍に広がったことが深刻な数字につながった。２３区内の７割は震度６強以上で揺れる。震度７の地域もあり、鉄筋コンクリート製の建物さえ全壊するものがある。
Although the quake- and fire-resistance of buildings has improved, many buildings are expected to collapse and fires are predicted to break out particularly in areas of the 23 wards with high concentrations of wooden houses.
住宅の耐震・耐火性は向上しているが、とりわけ、２３区内の木造住宅密集地域で倒壊、火災の多発が予測されている。
Earlier this fiscal year, the metropolitan government introduced a program that will require residents of certain areas to make their houses fire-resistant. It intends to designate areas subject to the program as early as this summer.
都は、今年度から、こうした地域で耐火住宅への建て替えを強制的に進める制度を設けた。今夏にも、対象地区を選定する。
The metropolitan government must steadily make preparations to reduce damage from the predicted quake.
被害を減らせるよう、着実に取り組まねばならない。
===
Steps for those stranded urged
In the event of such a quake, about 3.39 million people could be forced to take shelter, mainly because their houses or apartments are badly damaged. The figure is about 10 times higher than the number of evacuees in the Great East Japan Earthquake. The new estimates also predict about 5.17 million people, such as workers in Tokyo, may be unable to return home.
自宅の被災などによる避難者も約３３９万人にのぼる。東日本大震災の約１０倍だ。都内の企業で働く会社員ら約５１７万人が帰宅困難になるとも推計している。
To help people unable to return home, the metropolitan government last month enacted an ordinance calling on companies to store three days' worth of food and water that can be used in the event of a disaster. We hope companies will reliably comply with the ordinance. The metropolitan government should also increase cooperation with other entities, such as public transportation companies, lodging facilities and convenience stores.
帰宅困難者対策について、都は３月、企業に３日分の水、食料の備蓄を求める条例を制定した。確実に履行してもらいたい。交通機関や宿泊施設、コンビニなどとの協力も強化すべきだ。
We also urge the metropolitan government to consider measures to assist shoppers and tourists who are in central Tokyo at the time of a disaster.
都心を訪れる買い物客や観光客の支援も検討しておきたい。
The metropolitan government intends to work out new local disaster management plans--on which specific measures will be based--by September. With the aim of dependably minimizing damage from the quake, it must compile adequate plans.
都は、９月までに対策の基本となる新たな地域防災計画を策定する。確実な減災を目指して計画をまとめねばならない。
===
Specific preparations are vital
Many factors are difficult to predict when estimating quake damage for a major city.
大都市での地震では、被害想定が困難なものも多い。
In the latest review, the metropolitan government simply listed the possible intensity of tremors in different areas. But it needs to be ready for more contingencies such as preparing for rescue and relief efforts in case community halls and other facilities, where many people gather, collapse. If a tsunami occurs in Tokyo Bay, ships could cause serious fires after being washed ashore.
今回の見直しでは発生の可能性が列挙されているだけだが、例えば多数が集まるホールなどの倒壊に備えた救助・救援対策を事前に講じておく必要がある。東京湾で津波が起きれば、船舶が流され大規模な火災も起こり得る。
High-rise buildings in central Tokyo may suffer damage from long-period ground motion, which would cause them to sway slowly and severely.
都心の高層ビルでは、ゆっくり大きく揺れる長周期地震動による被害があるかもしれない。
The central government also plans to draw up damage estimates for the entire Tokyo metropolitan area this winter. How can the nation maintain the operation of key government bodies, companies' headquarters and freight centers?
政府も今冬、首都圏全域の被害想定をまとめる。首都圏に集中する政府中枢、企業の本社、物流の拠点を、どう維持するか。
We hope the government will take all possible measures, including coordinated steps with Osaka and other major cities, to prevent Japan's political system and economy from being paralyzed.
日本の政治、経済をマヒさせないよう、大阪など主要都市との協力も視野に、万全を期したい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 20, 2012)
（2012年4月20日01時26分 読売新聞）
Tokyo's disaster management plans need urgent upgrade
地震想定見直し 首都の減災対策強化を急げ（4月20日付・読売社説）
The current disaster management system for Tokyo, which experts say is at risk of being struck by a major earthquake, needs to be drastically reviewed.
大地震の危険性が指摘されてきた首都・東京の防災体制を抜本的に見直す必要がある。
In the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake, the Tokyo metropolitan government updated its estimates of the damage a major quake would cause for the first time in six years.
東日本大震災を受け、東京都が地震被害想定を６年ぶりに更新した。
If a quake with its focus in northern Tokyo Bay strikes the metropolitan area, the estimated damage could cause a great number of deaths and injuries. New damage estimates show that 300,000 buildings--about 10 percent of all buildings in Tokyo--could be destroyed by the quake or resulting fires, and about 9,700 people could be killed in the disaster.
直下型の東京湾北部地震が起きると、人的被害は最悪となる。都内の建物の約１割に相当する３０万棟が全壊・焼失して、約９７００人が死亡すると予測している。
The newly estimated death toll is about 1.5 times higher than the previous estimate of about 6,400. The predicted casualties are expected to be enormous.
前回想定した死者数は約６４００人だったが、約１・５倍に膨れ上がった。甚大な被害である。
Such alarming figures have come to light as the latest seismology research predicts strong quakes could occur in an area about 1.5 times greater than previously thought. If the predicted quake occurs in this area, about 70 percent of Tokyo's 23 wards could be struck by tremors registering upper 6 or higher on the Japanese seismic intensity scale. As some areas could be hit by tremors of the highest intensity level of 7, even reinforced concrete buildings could be destroyed or damaged.
地震学の最新研究で、強い揺れが予想される地域が約１・５倍に広がったことが深刻な数字につながった。２３区内の７割は震度６強以上で揺れる。震度７の地域もあり、鉄筋コンクリート製の建物さえ全壊するものがある。
Although the quake- and fire-resistance of buildings has improved, many buildings are expected to collapse and fires are predicted to break out particularly in areas of the 23 wards with high concentrations of wooden houses.
住宅の耐震・耐火性は向上しているが、とりわけ、２３区内の木造住宅密集地域で倒壊、火災の多発が予測されている。
Earlier this fiscal year, the metropolitan government introduced a program that will require residents of certain areas to make their houses fire-resistant. It intends to designate areas subject to the program as early as this summer.
都は、今年度から、こうした地域で耐火住宅への建て替えを強制的に進める制度を設けた。今夏にも、対象地区を選定する。
The metropolitan government must steadily make preparations to reduce damage from the predicted quake.
被害を減らせるよう、着実に取り組まねばならない。
===
Steps for those stranded urged
In the event of such a quake, about 3.39 million people could be forced to take shelter, mainly because their houses or apartments are badly damaged. The figure is about 10 times higher than the number of evacuees in the Great East Japan Earthquake. The new estimates also predict about 5.17 million people, such as workers in Tokyo, may be unable to return home.
自宅の被災などによる避難者も約３３９万人にのぼる。東日本大震災の約１０倍だ。都内の企業で働く会社員ら約５１７万人が帰宅困難になるとも推計している。
To help people unable to return home, the metropolitan government last month enacted an ordinance calling on companies to store three days' worth of food and water that can be used in the event of a disaster. We hope companies will reliably comply with the ordinance. The metropolitan government should also increase cooperation with other entities, such as public transportation companies, lodging facilities and convenience stores.
帰宅困難者対策について、都は３月、企業に３日分の水、食料の備蓄を求める条例を制定した。確実に履行してもらいたい。交通機関や宿泊施設、コンビニなどとの協力も強化すべきだ。
We also urge the metropolitan government to consider measures to assist shoppers and tourists who are in central Tokyo at the time of a disaster.
都心を訪れる買い物客や観光客の支援も検討しておきたい。
The metropolitan government intends to work out new local disaster management plans--on which specific measures will be based--by September. With the aim of dependably minimizing damage from the quake, it must compile adequate plans.
都は、９月までに対策の基本となる新たな地域防災計画を策定する。確実な減災を目指して計画をまとめねばならない。
===
Specific preparations are vital
Many factors are difficult to predict when estimating quake damage for a major city.
大都市での地震では、被害想定が困難なものも多い。
In the latest review, the metropolitan government simply listed the possible intensity of tremors in different areas. But it needs to be ready for more contingencies such as preparing for rescue and relief efforts in case community halls and other facilities, where many people gather, collapse. If a tsunami occurs in Tokyo Bay, ships could cause serious fires after being washed ashore.
今回の見直しでは発生の可能性が列挙されているだけだが、例えば多数が集まるホールなどの倒壊に備えた救助・救援対策を事前に講じておく必要がある。東京湾で津波が起きれば、船舶が流され大規模な火災も起こり得る。
High-rise buildings in central Tokyo may suffer damage from long-period ground motion, which would cause them to sway slowly and severely.
都心の高層ビルでは、ゆっくり大きく揺れる長周期地震動による被害があるかもしれない。
The central government also plans to draw up damage estimates for the entire Tokyo metropolitan area this winter. How can the nation maintain the operation of key government bodies, companies' headquarters and freight centers?
政府も今冬、首都圏全域の被害想定をまとめる。首都圏に集中する政府中枢、企業の本社、物流の拠点を、どう維持するか。
We hope the government will take all possible measures, including coordinated steps with Osaka and other major cities, to prevent Japan's political system and economy from being paralyzed.
日本の政治、経済をマヒさせないよう、大阪など主要都市との協力も視野に、万全を期したい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 20, 2012)
（2012年4月20日01時26分 読売新聞）
2012年04月21日
世界に一つのiphoneケース 一個から注文できます
今朝は、CollaBornのギャラクシーケース をご紹介いたします。
CollaBornに注文すれば、世界に一つだけのオリジナルgalaxyケース を作ることができます。
ケースのデザインが自分でできるのが特徴です。写真だって文字だって、自分のお気に入りを自由に表現することができるのです。
CollaBornでは、galaxyケース の他にも iPhoneケース や 最新のiphone4sケース も販売しています。
私の心をとらえたデザインは下の三つです＾＾。
↓↓↓
一番目は日本の心、武士道をモチーフにしたもので、私のお気に入りです。
二番目は富士山を中心に回る星空の幻想的な世界です。とても素敵ですね。
あなたも、CollaBornで スマートフォンケース や最先端のiphone4ケース をつくってみませんか。
レビューブログからの紹介です。
天然ミネラルウォーターをナノバブル化してつくったスポーツ飲料水
天然ミネラルウォーターをナノバブル化してつくったスポーツ飲料水をご紹介いたします。
それはナノバブル水（into2） です。
天然ミネラルウォーターによるナノバブル水 は激しい運動により身体が酸素不足を引き起こす前に飲むだけで酸素が吸収できるらしいのです。
新しい発想ですね。「日テレ・ベレーザ」公式ドリンク となっているようです。
私は今年で６０歳を超す老人ですが、毎朝と毎夕、健康のために散歩をかかしません。
散歩といっても競歩みたいに腕を振り振り素早くあるくので息切れがすることが多いのです。で、ナノバブル水INT O2を、お散歩の前後でコップに一杯飲むことにしました。
後ほどその体感報告をいたしましょう。楽しみですね＾＾。
レビューブログからの紹介です。
石原氏尖閣発言 領土保全に国も関与すべきだ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Apr. 20, 2012)
Govt should be involved in guarding territorial integrity
石原氏尖閣発言 領土保全に国も関与すべきだ（4月19日付・読売社説）
Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara has announced in a speech during his visit to the United States that the Tokyo metropolitan government plans to purchase some of the Senkaku Islands in Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture.
沖縄県石垣市にある尖閣諸島を東京都が買い上げる。そんな計画を、石原慎太郎知事が訪米中に講演で明らかにした。
In response to Ishihara's announcement, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda referred to the possibility that the central government might move to possess the islets in place of the metropolitan government, saying it "will confirm the true intention of the owner [of the islets] and discuss the matter from every angle."
これを受けて、野田首相は国会で「所有者の真意を確認し、あらゆる検討をする」と述べ、都に代わって国が保有する可能性に言及した。
Ishihara, who has said, "Tokyo will protect the Senkaku Islands," raised an important question as to how the country's territorial integrity should be maintained. His intention is probably to encourage the Democratic Party of Japan-led government, which has little interest in territorial issues, to change its attitude on the matter.
「東京が尖閣諸島を守る」という石原氏が、国の領土保全のあり方に重要な一石を投じたと言える。石原氏には、領土問題への関心が薄い民主党政権に意識改革を促す意図もあるのだろう。
The Senkaku Islands were incorporated into Japanese territory during the Meiji era (1868-1912). The government sold most of the islands to an individual 80 years ago.
尖閣諸島は明治時代、日本の領土に編入された。政府はその大半を８０年前に個人に払い下げた。
The owner of the islets has changed due to inheritance and transfers. Owners have been approached by many people who want to buy the islands.
相続や譲渡によって所有者が交代したり、複数の購入話が地権者側に持ち込まれたりしたという。
===
Private ownership unstable
If the metropolitan government purchases the islands, they will no longer be under individual ownership, which tends to be unstable.
都が購入すれば不安定になりがちな個人所有から抜け出せる。
According to Ishihara, the metropolitan government plans to purchase three of the Senkaku Islands, including Uotsurijima island. The metropolitan government and the owner have already reached a broad agreement on the sale, and negotiations have entered the final stage.
石原氏によると、購入の対象は尖閣諸島の魚釣島など３島で、都と地権者は既に大筋合意し、詰めの交渉を進めている。
Soliciting donations is one possibility to collect the money to buy the islets, but much of the cost is expected to be covered by taxes paid by Tokyo residents. However, there are high hurdles to clear before Ishihara's plan can be realized, including obtaining approval from the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly.
購入資金は、寄付を募る案もあるが、多くは都民の税金で賄うと見られる。購入の前提となる都議会の承認など、石原氏の構想実現には高いハードルもある。
One important point is to develop a system to stably maintain and conserve the Senkaku Islands over the long term.
肝心なのは、尖閣諸島を長期間、安定的に維持、保全できる体制を整えることである。
The government leased the Senkaku Islands from the owners in 2002, in a bid to make it easier for the government to regulate Japanese people's landing on the islands without permission and illegal landings by foreigners.
政府は２００２年、尖閣諸島を地権者から借り上げた。日本人の無許可上陸や外国人の不法上陸を規制しやすくするためだ。
Even if the metropolitan government buys the islands, it is the central government that has the diplomatic and defense authority necessary to maintain Japanese territory. As long as there is expected to be friction between China and the metropolitan government over the sale of the islands, the central government should get involved in the matter.
都が購入するとしても、領土保全に必要な外交・防衛の権限を持っているのは政府だ。中国などとのトラブルが想定される以上、やはり政府が関与すべきだろう。
The central and metropolitan governments must closely discuss the matter and conduct the necessary coordination. One idea could be to have discussions between the central and metropolitan governments and the owner of the three islets.
政府と都は今後、緊密に協議、連携しなければならない。地権者側を交えた３者で話し合いを進めるのも一案ではないか。
===
China's claims unreasonable
The Chinese government has objected to Ishihara's announcements, saying, "All unilateral measures by Japan are illegal and invalid." However, China's claim of sovereignty over the Senkaku Islands is unreasonable in terms of the history of the Senkakus and international law.
中国政府は石原氏の発言に「日本のいかなる一方的措置も違法、無効である」と反発している。だが、中国の領有権の主張には歴史的にも国際法上も無理がある。
A Chinese patrol vessel entered Japanese territorial waters near the islands last month. China's repeated provocations are a problem.
尖閣諸島を巡っては、中国の巡視船が先月、日本の領海に侵入した。中国側の挑発的な行為が続いているのは問題だ。
The Japanese government needs to improve the Japan Coast Guard's monitoring system, such as by deploying large patrol vessels in waters off the Senkaku Islands.
日本政府は、大型の巡視船を尖閣周辺海域に配備するなど、海上保安庁の監視体制の拡充を図る必要がある。
A bill to revise the Japan Coast Guard Law that would allow JCG officers to clamp down on crimes, including illegal landings by foreigners, on remote islands such as the Senkaku Islands has already been submitted to the Diet. The ruling and opposition parties should enact the bill at an early date.
尖閣諸島のような離島で、海上保安官が、外国人の不法上陸などの犯罪を取り締まることを認める海上保安庁法改正案は、すでに国会に提出されている。与野党は早期に成立させるべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 19, 2012)
（2012年4月19日01時12分 読売新聞）
Govt should be involved in guarding territorial integrity
石原氏尖閣発言 領土保全に国も関与すべきだ（4月19日付・読売社説）
Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara has announced in a speech during his visit to the United States that the Tokyo metropolitan government plans to purchase some of the Senkaku Islands in Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture.
沖縄県石垣市にある尖閣諸島を東京都が買い上げる。そんな計画を、石原慎太郎知事が訪米中に講演で明らかにした。
In response to Ishihara's announcement, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda referred to the possibility that the central government might move to possess the islets in place of the metropolitan government, saying it "will confirm the true intention of the owner [of the islets] and discuss the matter from every angle."
これを受けて、野田首相は国会で「所有者の真意を確認し、あらゆる検討をする」と述べ、都に代わって国が保有する可能性に言及した。
Ishihara, who has said, "Tokyo will protect the Senkaku Islands," raised an important question as to how the country's territorial integrity should be maintained. His intention is probably to encourage the Democratic Party of Japan-led government, which has little interest in territorial issues, to change its attitude on the matter.
「東京が尖閣諸島を守る」という石原氏が、国の領土保全のあり方に重要な一石を投じたと言える。石原氏には、領土問題への関心が薄い民主党政権に意識改革を促す意図もあるのだろう。
The Senkaku Islands were incorporated into Japanese territory during the Meiji era (1868-1912). The government sold most of the islands to an individual 80 years ago.
尖閣諸島は明治時代、日本の領土に編入された。政府はその大半を８０年前に個人に払い下げた。
The owner of the islets has changed due to inheritance and transfers. Owners have been approached by many people who want to buy the islands.
相続や譲渡によって所有者が交代したり、複数の購入話が地権者側に持ち込まれたりしたという。
===
Private ownership unstable
If the metropolitan government purchases the islands, they will no longer be under individual ownership, which tends to be unstable.
都が購入すれば不安定になりがちな個人所有から抜け出せる。
According to Ishihara, the metropolitan government plans to purchase three of the Senkaku Islands, including Uotsurijima island. The metropolitan government and the owner have already reached a broad agreement on the sale, and negotiations have entered the final stage.
石原氏によると、購入の対象は尖閣諸島の魚釣島など３島で、都と地権者は既に大筋合意し、詰めの交渉を進めている。
Soliciting donations is one possibility to collect the money to buy the islets, but much of the cost is expected to be covered by taxes paid by Tokyo residents. However, there are high hurdles to clear before Ishihara's plan can be realized, including obtaining approval from the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly.
購入資金は、寄付を募る案もあるが、多くは都民の税金で賄うと見られる。購入の前提となる都議会の承認など、石原氏の構想実現には高いハードルもある。
One important point is to develop a system to stably maintain and conserve the Senkaku Islands over the long term.
肝心なのは、尖閣諸島を長期間、安定的に維持、保全できる体制を整えることである。
The government leased the Senkaku Islands from the owners in 2002, in a bid to make it easier for the government to regulate Japanese people's landing on the islands without permission and illegal landings by foreigners.
政府は２００２年、尖閣諸島を地権者から借り上げた。日本人の無許可上陸や外国人の不法上陸を規制しやすくするためだ。
Even if the metropolitan government buys the islands, it is the central government that has the diplomatic and defense authority necessary to maintain Japanese territory. As long as there is expected to be friction between China and the metropolitan government over the sale of the islands, the central government should get involved in the matter.
都が購入するとしても、領土保全に必要な外交・防衛の権限を持っているのは政府だ。中国などとのトラブルが想定される以上、やはり政府が関与すべきだろう。
The central and metropolitan governments must closely discuss the matter and conduct the necessary coordination. One idea could be to have discussions between the central and metropolitan governments and the owner of the three islets.
政府と都は今後、緊密に協議、連携しなければならない。地権者側を交えた３者で話し合いを進めるのも一案ではないか。
===
China's claims unreasonable
The Chinese government has objected to Ishihara's announcements, saying, "All unilateral measures by Japan are illegal and invalid." However, China's claim of sovereignty over the Senkaku Islands is unreasonable in terms of the history of the Senkakus and international law.
中国政府は石原氏の発言に「日本のいかなる一方的措置も違法、無効である」と反発している。だが、中国の領有権の主張には歴史的にも国際法上も無理がある。
A Chinese patrol vessel entered Japanese territorial waters near the islands last month. China's repeated provocations are a problem.
尖閣諸島を巡っては、中国の巡視船が先月、日本の領海に侵入した。中国側の挑発的な行為が続いているのは問題だ。
The Japanese government needs to improve the Japan Coast Guard's monitoring system, such as by deploying large patrol vessels in waters off the Senkaku Islands.
日本政府は、大型の巡視船を尖閣周辺海域に配備するなど、海上保安庁の監視体制の拡充を図る必要がある。
A bill to revise the Japan Coast Guard Law that would allow JCG officers to clamp down on crimes, including illegal landings by foreigners, on remote islands such as the Senkaku Islands has already been submitted to the Diet. The ruling and opposition parties should enact the bill at an early date.
尖閣諸島のような離島で、海上保安官が、外国人の不法上陸などの犯罪を取り締まることを認める海上保安庁法改正案は、すでに国会に提出されている。与野党は早期に成立させるべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 19, 2012)
（2012年4月19日01時12分 読売新聞）
2012年04月20日
人民元改革 着実な切り上げで安定成長を
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Apr. 19, 2012)
China must revalue yuan to attain stable growth
人民元改革 着実な切り上げで安定成長を（4月18日付・読売社説）
China has expanded the yuan's trading band for the first time in five years. Yet, it must continue to steadily revalue its currency to help stabilize its economy.
中国が人民元相場の変動幅を５年ぶりに拡大した。
着実に人民元を上昇させ、中国経済の安定に役立てるべきだ。
From Monday, the People's Bank of China allowed the yuan to fluctuate by 1 percent above and below the rate set daily by the bank, double the previous 0.5 percent.
中国人民銀行は今週、元の対ドル相場が１日に変動できる幅について、毎日決める基準値の上下１％幅に倍増した。
China's effort to give its currency more flexibility so it can fluctuate more actively is reasonable.
これまでより相場が動きやすくなるよう、中国が元の柔軟化を目指すことは妥当だ。
Beijing expanded the band of yuan's fluctuations apparently because of mounting pressure from Washington, which has been saddled with a huge trade deficit with China. In the United States, where a presidential election will be held in November, criticism has been growing stronger that China is keeping its currency at unduly low levels.
変動幅を拡大した理由は、巨額の対中貿易赤字を抱える米国が圧力を強めているためだろう。１１月の大統領選を控えた米国では、中国が元を不当に安く抑えているとの批判が高まりつつある。
The Chinese yuan may become a focal point of a meeting of financial ministers and central bank governors from the Group of 20 major economies opening in Washington later this week.
今週末にワシントンで開かれる主要２０か国・地域（Ｇ２０）の財務相・中央銀行総裁会議でも、人民元問題が焦点になる見通しだ。
===
Preemptive move
China's decision to give the yuan more flexibility was an apparent move ahead of the G-20 conference to show the world its willingness to promote currency reform.
中国は先手を打って、人民元改革に取り組む姿勢を国際的にアピールしたと指摘できる。
However, the yuan failed to meet expectations as it fluctuated in narrow ranges on Monday, the first trading day, and Tuesday. The yuan closed at 6.3015 per dollar Tuesday, virtually unchanged from last week.
しかし、取引初日となった１６日と、１７日の相場は小動きで、肩すかしに終わった。１７日の終値は、先週とほぼ同水準の１ドル＝６・３０１５元だった。
The Chinese monetary authorities plan to continue intervening in exchange markets by selling the yuan and buying the dollar to stem the sharp rise in the yuan's value.
中国当局は従来通り、元売り・ドル買いの為替介入を続け、元の急上昇を抑える構えだ。
But China will not be able to correct the trade imbalance by carrying out such a token reform.
改革へのポーズだけでは、貿易不均衡を是正できまい。
It is essential for China to raise the yuan's exchange rate to levels commensurate with its status as the world's second largest economy and structurally reform its economy.
なによりも大事なのは、世界２位の経済大国に見合った元相場を実現し、中国経済の構造改革にもつなげていくことだ。
China's gross domestic product for the January-March quarter showed a moderate 8.1 percent increase over the same period the year before, marking a slowdown for five consecutive quarters and the lowest increase in about three years.
中国の１〜３月期の国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）の伸び率は、前年同期比８・１％増にとどまり、５四半期連続で減速した。約３年ぶりの低成長である。
The slowdown in China's economy was primarily caused by reduced exports to Europe, which is mired in a sovereign debt crisis. Beijing is trying to shift from an export-reliant economy to one led by domestic demand centering on personal consumption. However, this transformation has made little progress.
景気減速は、財政危機に陥った欧州向けの輸出減少が主因だ。中国政府は輸出依存型から、個人消費などを中心にした内需主導型経済への転換を目指しているが、その変革は遅れている。
===
Concern about inflation
Will China's economy slow down further or get back on the road to stable growth? It can be said the country is facing a crucial turning point.
中国景気がさらに減速するか、安定成長に回復できるか、正念場にあると言えよう。
The country's consumer prices have been soaring, refueling concern about inflation. If the Chinese authorities flood the domestic market with an excessive money supply in their efforts to curb the yen's rise by selling the currency in exchange markets, inflation may accelerate.
(●これは誤植でしょうね＾＾to curb the yen's rise→to curb the yuan's riseプロでも間違えることもあるのです＾＾）
一方、消費者物価が上昇し、インフレ懸念が再燃し始めた。中国当局が意図的に元の上昇を抑える元売り介入を通じ、過剰なマネーを国内にあふれさせると、インフレが一段と加速しかねない。
For this reason, China must make all-out efforts to control inflation by allowing the yuan's exchange rate to rise gradually. If prices become stable, it will widen the scope of options to carry out financial policies. It also will have the effect of reducing reliance on exports.
だからこそ、中国は元の段階的な上昇を容認し、インフレ抑制に全力を挙げるべきだ。物価が安定すれば、金融政策の余地が広がる。輸出に頼り過ぎない経済への転換を後押しする効果もあろう。
High expectations are placed on China to help put the global economy, which is still reeling from the effect of the European fiscal debt crisis, and the Japanese economy on a stable path.
欧州財政危機の余波が続く世界経済や、日本経済の安定に向けて、中国への期待は大きい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 18, 2012)
（2012年4月18日01時26分 読売新聞）
China must revalue yuan to attain stable growth
人民元改革 着実な切り上げで安定成長を（4月18日付・読売社説）
China has expanded the yuan's trading band for the first time in five years. Yet, it must continue to steadily revalue its currency to help stabilize its economy.
中国が人民元相場の変動幅を５年ぶりに拡大した。
着実に人民元を上昇させ、中国経済の安定に役立てるべきだ。
From Monday, the People's Bank of China allowed the yuan to fluctuate by 1 percent above and below the rate set daily by the bank, double the previous 0.5 percent.
中国人民銀行は今週、元の対ドル相場が１日に変動できる幅について、毎日決める基準値の上下１％幅に倍増した。
China's effort to give its currency more flexibility so it can fluctuate more actively is reasonable.
これまでより相場が動きやすくなるよう、中国が元の柔軟化を目指すことは妥当だ。
Beijing expanded the band of yuan's fluctuations apparently because of mounting pressure from Washington, which has been saddled with a huge trade deficit with China. In the United States, where a presidential election will be held in November, criticism has been growing stronger that China is keeping its currency at unduly low levels.
変動幅を拡大した理由は、巨額の対中貿易赤字を抱える米国が圧力を強めているためだろう。１１月の大統領選を控えた米国では、中国が元を不当に安く抑えているとの批判が高まりつつある。
The Chinese yuan may become a focal point of a meeting of financial ministers and central bank governors from the Group of 20 major economies opening in Washington later this week.
今週末にワシントンで開かれる主要２０か国・地域（Ｇ２０）の財務相・中央銀行総裁会議でも、人民元問題が焦点になる見通しだ。
===
Preemptive move
China's decision to give the yuan more flexibility was an apparent move ahead of the G-20 conference to show the world its willingness to promote currency reform.
中国は先手を打って、人民元改革に取り組む姿勢を国際的にアピールしたと指摘できる。
However, the yuan failed to meet expectations as it fluctuated in narrow ranges on Monday, the first trading day, and Tuesday. The yuan closed at 6.3015 per dollar Tuesday, virtually unchanged from last week.
しかし、取引初日となった１６日と、１７日の相場は小動きで、肩すかしに終わった。１７日の終値は、先週とほぼ同水準の１ドル＝６・３０１５元だった。
The Chinese monetary authorities plan to continue intervening in exchange markets by selling the yuan and buying the dollar to stem the sharp rise in the yuan's value.
中国当局は従来通り、元売り・ドル買いの為替介入を続け、元の急上昇を抑える構えだ。
But China will not be able to correct the trade imbalance by carrying out such a token reform.
改革へのポーズだけでは、貿易不均衡を是正できまい。
It is essential for China to raise the yuan's exchange rate to levels commensurate with its status as the world's second largest economy and structurally reform its economy.
なによりも大事なのは、世界２位の経済大国に見合った元相場を実現し、中国経済の構造改革にもつなげていくことだ。
China's gross domestic product for the January-March quarter showed a moderate 8.1 percent increase over the same period the year before, marking a slowdown for five consecutive quarters and the lowest increase in about three years.
中国の１〜３月期の国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）の伸び率は、前年同期比８・１％増にとどまり、５四半期連続で減速した。約３年ぶりの低成長である。
The slowdown in China's economy was primarily caused by reduced exports to Europe, which is mired in a sovereign debt crisis. Beijing is trying to shift from an export-reliant economy to one led by domestic demand centering on personal consumption. However, this transformation has made little progress.
景気減速は、財政危機に陥った欧州向けの輸出減少が主因だ。中国政府は輸出依存型から、個人消費などを中心にした内需主導型経済への転換を目指しているが、その変革は遅れている。
===
Concern about inflation
Will China's economy slow down further or get back on the road to stable growth? It can be said the country is facing a crucial turning point.
中国景気がさらに減速するか、安定成長に回復できるか、正念場にあると言えよう。
The country's consumer prices have been soaring, refueling concern about inflation. If the Chinese authorities flood the domestic market with an excessive money supply in their efforts to curb the yen's rise by selling the currency in exchange markets, inflation may accelerate.
(●これは誤植でしょうね＾＾to curb the yen's rise→to curb the yuan's riseプロでも間違えることもあるのです＾＾）
一方、消費者物価が上昇し、インフレ懸念が再燃し始めた。中国当局が意図的に元の上昇を抑える元売り介入を通じ、過剰なマネーを国内にあふれさせると、インフレが一段と加速しかねない。
For this reason, China must make all-out efforts to control inflation by allowing the yuan's exchange rate to rise gradually. If prices become stable, it will widen the scope of options to carry out financial policies. It also will have the effect of reducing reliance on exports.
だからこそ、中国は元の段階的な上昇を容認し、インフレ抑制に全力を挙げるべきだ。物価が安定すれば、金融政策の余地が広がる。輸出に頼り過ぎない経済への転換を後押しする効果もあろう。
High expectations are placed on China to help put the global economy, which is still reeling from the effect of the European fiscal debt crisis, and the Japanese economy on a stable path.
欧州財政危機の余波が続く世界経済や、日本経済の安定に向けて、中国への期待は大きい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 18, 2012)
（2012年4月18日01時26分 読売新聞）
2012年04月19日
対「北」議長声明 これで核実験阻止できるのか
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Apr. 18, 2012)
UNSC presidential statement not enough to deter DPRK
対「北」議長声明 これで核実験阻止できるのか（4月17日付・読売社説）
U.N. Security Council discussions on North Korea's failed launch of a ballistic missile ended with the adoption of a presidential statement strongly condemning Pyongyang, and recognizing the launch as a serious violation of U.N. resolutions.
北朝鮮の長距離弾道ミサイルを巡る国連安全保障理事会の協議は、発射の強行を強く非難し、安保理決議への「重大な違反」と認定する議長声明の採択で決着した。
The presidential statement demanded that North Korea refrain from launching another missile or carrying out a new nuclear test. The council warned it would take appropriate actions if Pyongyang rejected the council's demands. The statement also urged other U.N. members to fully enforce existing sanctions based on Security Council resolutions against North Korea.
議長声明は、北朝鮮に、新たな弾道ミサイル発射や核実験の実施をしないよう要求し、違反した場合は「安保理が相応の行動を取る」と警告した。各国にも、既存の安保理決議の制裁措置を徹底するよう求めている。
When Pyongyang launched a ballistic missile three years ago, claiming like the latest launch that it was a rocket carrying a satellite, the Security Council also issued a presidential statement condemning North Korea.
３年前、北朝鮮が今回と同じく「衛星」打ち上げと称して長距離弾道ミサイルを発射した時も、安保理は議長声明で非難した。
Although the new presidential statement is stronger than the one adopted in 2009, we are dissatisfied because it is not a binding resolution.
今回は、より強いメッセージとなったとは言え、拘束力のある決議でなかったことは物足りない。
China, a permanent member of the Security Council, remains cautious about applying strong pressure on North Korea. It is also concerned that too much pressure might destabilize China's own security.
常任理事国の中国は、北朝鮮へ強い圧力をかけることに慎重姿勢を崩していない。自国の安定が損なわれることも警戒している。
===
U.S.-China compromise
Apparently that was why Beijing secured a compromise with Washington to issue a presidential statement that was strong in substance but lacked binding power.
米国との間で、内容は強めても形式は拘束力のない議長声明にする妥協が図られたのだろう。
We highly doubt the presidential statement will stop North Korea from carrying out a third nuclear test or new missile launch.
これで、北朝鮮の３回目の核実験やさらなるミサイル発射を阻止できるのか。大いに疑問だ。
Whenever North Korea has launched a missile or conducted a nuclear test in the past, the Security Council has issued a presidential statement or a resolution condemning that country and demanding it halt such actions.
安保理は、北朝鮮がミサイル発射や核実験を行うたびに、議長声明や決議で、非難と中止要求を繰り返してきた。
However, the Security Council has never taken any military measures or imposed full-fledged economic sanctions.
だが、軍事的措置や本格的な経済制裁に踏み込んだことはない。
North Korea probably feels no effect at all from past measures.
北朝鮮が痛痒(つうよう)を感じるはずもない。
Pyongyang has defied U.N. resolutions again to launch a missile. This proves existing resolutions lack teeth.
今回も、北朝鮮は決議を無視して、ミサイル発射を強行した。既存の制裁決議に実効性がなかったことを示している。
Japan sees a growing threat from North Korea's missiles and nuclear arms every day.
日本にとって、北朝鮮の核とミサイルによる脅威は、日に日に増すばかりである。
A focal point is the reaction of China, which shares a border with North Korea and is the country's close ally and its biggest trading partner. China should be aware of its own responsibility and more strictly enforce embargoes against Pyongyang, including those on materials related to nuclear arms and missiles, and luxury items. Beijing also should improve its cargo inspections to check for embargoed goods.
問題は、北朝鮮と国境を接し、同盟関係にもある最大の貿易相手国、中国だ。その責任を自覚し、既存の決議に基づく核・ミサイル関連物資や贅沢(ぜいたく)品の禁輸と、禁輸品の貨物検査を徹底すべきだ。
===
N-arms or economic growth
After the failed "satellite" launch, North Korea's state media announced that Kim Jong Un, first secretary of the Korean Workers' Party, had been appointed first chairman of the National Defense Commission, a newly created position. He now holds supreme power in his country.
「衛星」発射には失敗したが、金正恩・朝鮮労働党第１書記は、新設の国防委員会第１委員長にも就任し、最高権力者となった。
In a military parade Sunday, North Korea showed off a variety of weapons, including Rodong medium-range ballistic missiles that can reach Japan.
１５日の軍閲兵式には、日本に届く中距離弾道ミサイル・ノドンなど多くの兵器が登場した。
In a speech on the occasion, Kim declared that his father's "military first" policy would continue. He emphasized that the dignity of the Korean people and sovereignty of the nation are more important than peace, which is necessary for economic construction.
金氏は演説で、軍事最優先の「先軍革命」路線の継承を表明し、経済建設に平和は大切だが、それ以上に「民族の尊厳と国の自主権が貴重だ」と強調した。
This apparently means the development of nuclear weapons and long-range missiles will continue.
核とミサイルの開発継続宣言だろう。
However, nuclear and missile development are not compatible with economic rehabilitation. The international community must make Kim Jong Un understand this.
核とミサイルの開発と、経済立て直しは両立しない。そのことを、国際社会は、金正恩氏に認識させる必要がある。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 17, 2012)
（2012年4月17日01時49分 読売新聞）
UNSC presidential statement not enough to deter DPRK
対「北」議長声明 これで核実験阻止できるのか（4月17日付・読売社説）
U.N. Security Council discussions on North Korea's failed launch of a ballistic missile ended with the adoption of a presidential statement strongly condemning Pyongyang, and recognizing the launch as a serious violation of U.N. resolutions.
北朝鮮の長距離弾道ミサイルを巡る国連安全保障理事会の協議は、発射の強行を強く非難し、安保理決議への「重大な違反」と認定する議長声明の採択で決着した。
The presidential statement demanded that North Korea refrain from launching another missile or carrying out a new nuclear test. The council warned it would take appropriate actions if Pyongyang rejected the council's demands. The statement also urged other U.N. members to fully enforce existing sanctions based on Security Council resolutions against North Korea.
議長声明は、北朝鮮に、新たな弾道ミサイル発射や核実験の実施をしないよう要求し、違反した場合は「安保理が相応の行動を取る」と警告した。各国にも、既存の安保理決議の制裁措置を徹底するよう求めている。
When Pyongyang launched a ballistic missile three years ago, claiming like the latest launch that it was a rocket carrying a satellite, the Security Council also issued a presidential statement condemning North Korea.
３年前、北朝鮮が今回と同じく「衛星」打ち上げと称して長距離弾道ミサイルを発射した時も、安保理は議長声明で非難した。
Although the new presidential statement is stronger than the one adopted in 2009, we are dissatisfied because it is not a binding resolution.
今回は、より強いメッセージとなったとは言え、拘束力のある決議でなかったことは物足りない。
China, a permanent member of the Security Council, remains cautious about applying strong pressure on North Korea. It is also concerned that too much pressure might destabilize China's own security.
常任理事国の中国は、北朝鮮へ強い圧力をかけることに慎重姿勢を崩していない。自国の安定が損なわれることも警戒している。
===
U.S.-China compromise
Apparently that was why Beijing secured a compromise with Washington to issue a presidential statement that was strong in substance but lacked binding power.
米国との間で、内容は強めても形式は拘束力のない議長声明にする妥協が図られたのだろう。
We highly doubt the presidential statement will stop North Korea from carrying out a third nuclear test or new missile launch.
これで、北朝鮮の３回目の核実験やさらなるミサイル発射を阻止できるのか。大いに疑問だ。
Whenever North Korea has launched a missile or conducted a nuclear test in the past, the Security Council has issued a presidential statement or a resolution condemning that country and demanding it halt such actions.
安保理は、北朝鮮がミサイル発射や核実験を行うたびに、議長声明や決議で、非難と中止要求を繰り返してきた。
However, the Security Council has never taken any military measures or imposed full-fledged economic sanctions.
だが、軍事的措置や本格的な経済制裁に踏み込んだことはない。
North Korea probably feels no effect at all from past measures.
北朝鮮が痛痒(つうよう)を感じるはずもない。
Pyongyang has defied U.N. resolutions again to launch a missile. This proves existing resolutions lack teeth.
今回も、北朝鮮は決議を無視して、ミサイル発射を強行した。既存の制裁決議に実効性がなかったことを示している。
Japan sees a growing threat from North Korea's missiles and nuclear arms every day.
日本にとって、北朝鮮の核とミサイルによる脅威は、日に日に増すばかりである。
A focal point is the reaction of China, which shares a border with North Korea and is the country's close ally and its biggest trading partner. China should be aware of its own responsibility and more strictly enforce embargoes against Pyongyang, including those on materials related to nuclear arms and missiles, and luxury items. Beijing also should improve its cargo inspections to check for embargoed goods.
問題は、北朝鮮と国境を接し、同盟関係にもある最大の貿易相手国、中国だ。その責任を自覚し、既存の決議に基づく核・ミサイル関連物資や贅沢(ぜいたく)品の禁輸と、禁輸品の貨物検査を徹底すべきだ。
===
N-arms or economic growth
After the failed "satellite" launch, North Korea's state media announced that Kim Jong Un, first secretary of the Korean Workers' Party, had been appointed first chairman of the National Defense Commission, a newly created position. He now holds supreme power in his country.
「衛星」発射には失敗したが、金正恩・朝鮮労働党第１書記は、新設の国防委員会第１委員長にも就任し、最高権力者となった。
In a military parade Sunday, North Korea showed off a variety of weapons, including Rodong medium-range ballistic missiles that can reach Japan.
１５日の軍閲兵式には、日本に届く中距離弾道ミサイル・ノドンなど多くの兵器が登場した。
In a speech on the occasion, Kim declared that his father's "military first" policy would continue. He emphasized that the dignity of the Korean people and sovereignty of the nation are more important than peace, which is necessary for economic construction.
金氏は演説で、軍事最優先の「先軍革命」路線の継承を表明し、経済建設に平和は大切だが、それ以上に「民族の尊厳と国の自主権が貴重だ」と強調した。
This apparently means the development of nuclear weapons and long-range missiles will continue.
核とミサイルの開発継続宣言だろう。
However, nuclear and missile development are not compatible with economic rehabilitation. The international community must make Kim Jong Un understand this.
核とミサイルの開発と、経済立て直しは両立しない。そのことを、国際社会は、金正恩氏に認識させる必要がある。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 17, 2012)
（2012年4月17日01時49分 読売新聞）
2012年04月18日
ＡＩＪ問題 時代状況に合う年金基金に
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Apr. 17, 2012)
Entire pension fund system must be overhauled
ＡＩＪ問題 時代状況に合う年金基金に（4月16日付・読売社説）
The recent scandal involving AIJ Investment Advisors Co. has exposed a structural problem concerning corporate employees' pension funds.
ＡＩＪ事件は、厚生年金基金の構造的な問題をあぶり出した。
The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry bears a heavy responsibility as it effectively ignored problems by failing to take appropriate measures, even though it was clear the entire system needs fixing.
制度全体の行き詰まりが明白であったのに、適切な手を打たず、事態を事実上、放置してきた厚生労働省の責任は重い。
The Diet is desperate to pursue the responsibility of those involved in the scandal, having summoned AIJ President Kazuhiko Asakawa as an unsworn witness. However, the Diet and administrative authorities should work to substantially improve the system and leave to investigators the task of uncovering the company's activities, which border on fraud.
国会はＡＩＪ投資顧問の浅川和彦社長らを証人喚問し、責任追及に躍起である。だが、詐欺まがいの行為の実態解明は捜査当局に委ねて、国会と行政は、本質的な制度改善に取り組むべきだろう。
AIJ is suspected of claiming to earn large profits through the stable management of assets in order to conclude contracts with corporate employees' pension funds that had trouble managing their money.
ＡＩＪは、年金資金を思ったように運用できていない厚生年金基金に対して、「安定的に高い収益を得ている」と偽って投資を勧誘し、運用委託契約を結んだ疑いが持たれている。
Of about 580 corporate employees' pension funds in Japan, about 70 signed contracts with AIJ. However, even those that did not do so have trouble managing their assets.
勧誘に乗ったのは約５８０基金のうち約７０基金だが、運用に苦しんでいる状況はどこも同じだ。
Corporate employees' pension funds are designed to manage not only contributions paid into corporate pension programs but also part of the public pension programs, and to pay out pensions to retirees.
厚生年金基金は自前の企業年金に加え、公的年金の一部も運用し、退職者に支給する。
===
Guaranteed high yields
At one time, these funds secured high yields, but their performance has deteriorated in recent years due to falling share prices and low interest rates. As a result, many corporate employees' pension funds are running short of reserves needed to pay pensions.
かつては高利回りを確保したが、近年は株安や低金利で運用成績が悪化し、年金支給に必要な積立金が不足している基金が多い。
In addition, 90 percent of these pension funds set guaranteed yields at an annual rate of 5.5 percent, the same yield as when the economy was booming. Based on this yield, the funds promised substantial payments to pension beneficiaries. In an effort to achieve this guaranteed rate, the funds that entrusted their assets to AIJ ended up suffering massive losses.
しかも９割の基金は、予定利率を好調時と同じ年５・５％に据え置き、これが達成される前提で年金支給額を約束している。何とか予定利率に近い運用実績を得ようと、ＡＩＪの勧誘に乗った基金が被害に遭った。
The corporate employees' pension fund system has been unable to cope with the changing environment. Most of the funds offered postretirement jobs to former officials of the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry and the now-defunct Social Insurance Agency. A total of 689 such people were on their payrolls as of March 1.
厚生年金基金の制度全体が環境の変化に対応できていない。基金の大半に厚労省や旧社会保険庁から計６８９人が天下っている。
The government cannot evade criticism that it has failed to take drastic measures to improve the system, partly because of the tight personnel network of former welfare ministry officials.
厚労省人脈が張り巡らされていることが、抜本的対策を怠ってきた一因と見られても仕方あるまい。
The welfare ministry has finally begun considering measures to bring pension funds more in line with the situation today, such as by relaxing the rules to allow them to reduce payments. It has established a panel of experts for this purpose.
厚労省は有識者会議を設け、年金を減額できる要件の緩和など、時代状況に合わせた改善策の検討作業にようやく乗り出した。
Reviewing the current system's unduly generous conditions, such as an extremely high guaranteed yield, may result in cuts in pension benefits and hikes in pension premiums. However, the system cannot be maintained if the pain accompanying such revisions is put off.
高い予定利率など甘い前提を見直すことは、年金支給額のカットや掛け金の引き上げにつながる。だが、そうした痛みを伴う改正を先送りすれば制度は続かない。
===
Learn lesson from AIJ scandal
This not only concerns corporate employees' pension funds, it involves the entire public pension system. The AIJ scandal should make the authorities and those concerned with the pension system even more aware of the serious situation surrounding the current pension system.
これは厚年基金だけでなく公的年金全体に共通する話だ。ＡＩＪ事件を機に、年金制度の厳しい現状を改めて認識すべきである。
In the wake of the AIJ scandal, the Financial Services Agency for the first time investigated the entire investment advisory industry. As a result, it came to light that only about half of investment advisory companies had been screened by outside auditors.
金融庁は、事件を受けて、初めて投資顧問業界全体の調査を行った。監査法人の外部監査を受けている投資顧問業者は、半数程度に過ぎないことが分かった。
We should not tighten regulations without reason, but given that investment advisory firms are entrusted with the management of pension funds, which are supposed to support retirees, we are disturbed by the lack of transparency in their management.
いたずらに規制強化に向かうべきではないが、老後の生活を支える年金原資の運用を託す先としては透明性を欠く。
The government also should urgently review the Financial Services Agency's methods of monitoring the investment advisory industry.
金融庁の投資顧問業界に対するチェック体制についても、早急に見直すべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 16, 2012)
（2012年4月16日01時27分 読売新聞）
Entire pension fund system must be overhauled
ＡＩＪ問題 時代状況に合う年金基金に（4月16日付・読売社説）
The recent scandal involving AIJ Investment Advisors Co. has exposed a structural problem concerning corporate employees' pension funds.
ＡＩＪ事件は、厚生年金基金の構造的な問題をあぶり出した。
The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry bears a heavy responsibility as it effectively ignored problems by failing to take appropriate measures, even though it was clear the entire system needs fixing.
制度全体の行き詰まりが明白であったのに、適切な手を打たず、事態を事実上、放置してきた厚生労働省の責任は重い。
The Diet is desperate to pursue the responsibility of those involved in the scandal, having summoned AIJ President Kazuhiko Asakawa as an unsworn witness. However, the Diet and administrative authorities should work to substantially improve the system and leave to investigators the task of uncovering the company's activities, which border on fraud.
国会はＡＩＪ投資顧問の浅川和彦社長らを証人喚問し、責任追及に躍起である。だが、詐欺まがいの行為の実態解明は捜査当局に委ねて、国会と行政は、本質的な制度改善に取り組むべきだろう。
AIJ is suspected of claiming to earn large profits through the stable management of assets in order to conclude contracts with corporate employees' pension funds that had trouble managing their money.
ＡＩＪは、年金資金を思ったように運用できていない厚生年金基金に対して、「安定的に高い収益を得ている」と偽って投資を勧誘し、運用委託契約を結んだ疑いが持たれている。
Of about 580 corporate employees' pension funds in Japan, about 70 signed contracts with AIJ. However, even those that did not do so have trouble managing their assets.
勧誘に乗ったのは約５８０基金のうち約７０基金だが、運用に苦しんでいる状況はどこも同じだ。
Corporate employees' pension funds are designed to manage not only contributions paid into corporate pension programs but also part of the public pension programs, and to pay out pensions to retirees.
厚生年金基金は自前の企業年金に加え、公的年金の一部も運用し、退職者に支給する。
===
Guaranteed high yields
At one time, these funds secured high yields, but their performance has deteriorated in recent years due to falling share prices and low interest rates. As a result, many corporate employees' pension funds are running short of reserves needed to pay pensions.
かつては高利回りを確保したが、近年は株安や低金利で運用成績が悪化し、年金支給に必要な積立金が不足している基金が多い。
In addition, 90 percent of these pension funds set guaranteed yields at an annual rate of 5.5 percent, the same yield as when the economy was booming. Based on this yield, the funds promised substantial payments to pension beneficiaries. In an effort to achieve this guaranteed rate, the funds that entrusted their assets to AIJ ended up suffering massive losses.
しかも９割の基金は、予定利率を好調時と同じ年５・５％に据え置き、これが達成される前提で年金支給額を約束している。何とか予定利率に近い運用実績を得ようと、ＡＩＪの勧誘に乗った基金が被害に遭った。
The corporate employees' pension fund system has been unable to cope with the changing environment. Most of the funds offered postretirement jobs to former officials of the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry and the now-defunct Social Insurance Agency. A total of 689 such people were on their payrolls as of March 1.
厚生年金基金の制度全体が環境の変化に対応できていない。基金の大半に厚労省や旧社会保険庁から計６８９人が天下っている。
The government cannot evade criticism that it has failed to take drastic measures to improve the system, partly because of the tight personnel network of former welfare ministry officials.
厚労省人脈が張り巡らされていることが、抜本的対策を怠ってきた一因と見られても仕方あるまい。
The welfare ministry has finally begun considering measures to bring pension funds more in line with the situation today, such as by relaxing the rules to allow them to reduce payments. It has established a panel of experts for this purpose.
厚労省は有識者会議を設け、年金を減額できる要件の緩和など、時代状況に合わせた改善策の検討作業にようやく乗り出した。
Reviewing the current system's unduly generous conditions, such as an extremely high guaranteed yield, may result in cuts in pension benefits and hikes in pension premiums. However, the system cannot be maintained if the pain accompanying such revisions is put off.
高い予定利率など甘い前提を見直すことは、年金支給額のカットや掛け金の引き上げにつながる。だが、そうした痛みを伴う改正を先送りすれば制度は続かない。
===
Learn lesson from AIJ scandal
This not only concerns corporate employees' pension funds, it involves the entire public pension system. The AIJ scandal should make the authorities and those concerned with the pension system even more aware of the serious situation surrounding the current pension system.
これは厚年基金だけでなく公的年金全体に共通する話だ。ＡＩＪ事件を機に、年金制度の厳しい現状を改めて認識すべきである。
In the wake of the AIJ scandal, the Financial Services Agency for the first time investigated the entire investment advisory industry. As a result, it came to light that only about half of investment advisory companies had been screened by outside auditors.
金融庁は、事件を受けて、初めて投資顧問業界全体の調査を行った。監査法人の外部監査を受けている投資顧問業者は、半数程度に過ぎないことが分かった。
We should not tighten regulations without reason, but given that investment advisory firms are entrusted with the management of pension funds, which are supposed to support retirees, we are disturbed by the lack of transparency in their management.
いたずらに規制強化に向かうべきではないが、老後の生活を支える年金原資の運用を託す先としては透明性を欠く。
The government also should urgently review the Financial Services Agency's methods of monitoring the investment advisory industry.
金融庁の投資顧問業界に対するチェック体制についても、早急に見直すべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 16, 2012)
（2012年4月16日01時27分 読売新聞）
2012年04月17日
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原発再稼働要請 立地自治体の理解が最優先だ
地元のおごりだと感じました。
ご飯を頂くときに農家の人々に感謝の気持ちを抱きますが、それとは少し違うのでは。
本質は同じものかも。難しい。
スラチャイ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Apr. 16, 2012)
Priority should be given to host governments' consent
原発再稼働要請 立地自治体の理解が最優先だ（4月15日付・読売社説）
The government is at a crucial juncture regarding reactivation of the suspended Nos. 3 and 4 reactors at Kansai Electric Power Co.'s Oi nuclear power plant in Fukui Prefecture.
関西電力大飯原子力発電所３、４号機（福井県おおい町）の再稼働に向けた正念場である。
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's Cabinet must unite to convince the local governments hosting the plant and local residents, and quickly win their understanding.
野田内閣は、速やかに地元の理解を得るよう、一丸となって説得しなければならない。
On Saturday, Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano held talks with Fukui Gov. Issei Nishikawa, Oi Mayor Shinobu Tokioka and other officials at the Fukui prefectural government office, asking for local understanding of the restart of the suspended reactors.
枝野経済産業相が１４日、福井県庁で西川一誠知事や時岡忍おおい町長らと相次いで会談し、大飯原発の再稼働に理解を求めた。
Edano told them the central government has confirmed the safety of the reactors, in accordance with the new safety criteria sought by the Fukui prefectural government, and concluded it is necessary to restart the reactors.
枝野氏は、福井県から要望のあった新たな安全基準に沿って安全性を確認し、再稼働が必要と判断したと説明した。
Nishikawa refrained from answering during the talks, saying he wants to "check carefully" the appropriateness of restarting the reactors.
西川知事は再稼働の妥当性を「厳正にチェックしたい」と、回答を留保した。
===
Send consistent message
Nishikawa praised Edano's remark that the government would use nuclear energy as an important power source. He also asked the government to send unwavering messages that nuclear power generation is essential.
知事は、枝野氏が原発を重要な電源として活用すると述べた点を評価し、「原発が必要不可欠であることについて、政府はぶれることのないメッセージを出してほしい」と要請した。
If it is going to ask local governments hosting nuclear power plants to cooperate, the Noda administration must make it clear it has broken from the idea of making the country's energy policy free from its dependence on nuclear power, a position advocated by former Prime Minister Naoto Kan and other government leaders although there were no prospects for its realization.
立地自治体に協力を求める以上、野田政権は菅前首相らの唱えた、展望なき「脱原発」からの決別を明確にするべきである。
On the other hand, Nishikawa said with a strong sense of dissatisfaction that the efforts and contributions made by local governments and communities hosting nuclear plants have not necessarily been understood by the areas that consume the electricity.
一方で知事は、原発を受け入れてきた地元の努力や貢献が「電力を消費する地域に必ずしも理解されていない」と、強い不満を示した。
During a press conference following his talks with Edano, the governor said the prefectural government will make the ultimate decision on whether the reactors should be restarted.
その後の記者会見では、再稼働の是非は「最終的には立地県が判断すべきだ」とも述べた。
He likely intended to refute criticism that the government's judgment on the restart was too hasty, an opinion voiced by governors of the neighboring prefectures of Shiga and Kyoto and by Toru Hashimoto, mayor of Osaka, a major consumer of the power generated from the KEPCO plant.
滋賀、京都の両知事や、電力の大量消費地である大阪市の橋下徹市長が、政府の再稼働判断は拙速だと批判しているためだろう。
It was also made apparently in opposition to Edano's earlier remark that the government needs to win the understanding not merely of the local governments hosting the plant but also of the nation, as a major accident at the plant would affect the entire country.
枝野氏が「日本全国が地元」と発言したことへの反発もある。
Needless to say, it is important to win understanding for the restart from neighboring governments. But the central government has to give the most weight to the local governments hosting the plant.
もちろん、周辺の自治体から理解を得ることは重要だが、政府は立地自治体の意向を最大限に尊重する必要がある。
===
Power shortage looms
If the nuclear reactors suspended for regular inspections are not restarted, all 54 of the nation's reactors will become idle in early May. In particular, the area in which the Oi plant is located and that is covered by the supply of electricity generated by KEPCO is expected to suffer a power shortage of up to about 20 percent this summer.
定期検査で止めた原発を再稼働しなければ、５月上旬に全原発５４基が停止する。特に大飯原発のある関電管内では今夏、最大約２０％の電力不足が予想される。
During a press conference Friday, Edano said power outages and shortages would significantly affect such socially disadvantaged people as the sick and the elderly.
枝野氏は１３日の記者会見で、再稼働の必要性に関連し、「停電や電力不足は病気の人や高齢者など社会的弱者に大きなしわ寄せを与える」などと指摘した。
He also said it was by no means permissible to bring about a power crisis by siding with optimists who say power supply and demand could be managed somehow through power-saving efforts or other measures. He is quite right.
節電などで何とかなるとの楽観論にくみして、電力危機を招くことは「到底許されない」とも強調した。妥当な認識だ。
If we replace nuclear power generation with thermal power, fuel costs for this fiscal year will increase by as much as 3.1 trillion yen for the whole nation.
原発を火力で代替すると、今年度の燃料コストは全国で３・１兆円も増える。
Therefore Edano is not going too far to say that within the near future the service areas covered by KEPCO may be asked to accept a hike in their utility charges.
枝野氏が「関電管内も遠からず、電力料金の値上げをお願いせざるを得ない」と言うのも、決して大げさではない。
Sufficient consideration should be given to the economic aspect of the power supply so the nation's economy is not adversely affected by such developments as the hollowing-out of industry.
産業空洞化などで日本経済に打撃を与えぬよう、経済性への配慮を欠いてはなるまい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 15, 2012)
（2012年4月15日01時25分 読売新聞）
ご飯を頂くときに農家の人々に感謝の気持ちを抱きますが、それとは少し違うのでは。
本質は同じものかも。難しい。
スラチャイ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Apr. 16, 2012)
Priority should be given to host governments' consent
原発再稼働要請 立地自治体の理解が最優先だ（4月15日付・読売社説）
The government is at a crucial juncture regarding reactivation of the suspended Nos. 3 and 4 reactors at Kansai Electric Power Co.'s Oi nuclear power plant in Fukui Prefecture.
関西電力大飯原子力発電所３、４号機（福井県おおい町）の再稼働に向けた正念場である。
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's Cabinet must unite to convince the local governments hosting the plant and local residents, and quickly win their understanding.
野田内閣は、速やかに地元の理解を得るよう、一丸となって説得しなければならない。
On Saturday, Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano held talks with Fukui Gov. Issei Nishikawa, Oi Mayor Shinobu Tokioka and other officials at the Fukui prefectural government office, asking for local understanding of the restart of the suspended reactors.
枝野経済産業相が１４日、福井県庁で西川一誠知事や時岡忍おおい町長らと相次いで会談し、大飯原発の再稼働に理解を求めた。
Edano told them the central government has confirmed the safety of the reactors, in accordance with the new safety criteria sought by the Fukui prefectural government, and concluded it is necessary to restart the reactors.
枝野氏は、福井県から要望のあった新たな安全基準に沿って安全性を確認し、再稼働が必要と判断したと説明した。
Nishikawa refrained from answering during the talks, saying he wants to "check carefully" the appropriateness of restarting the reactors.
西川知事は再稼働の妥当性を「厳正にチェックしたい」と、回答を留保した。
===
Send consistent message
Nishikawa praised Edano's remark that the government would use nuclear energy as an important power source. He also asked the government to send unwavering messages that nuclear power generation is essential.
知事は、枝野氏が原発を重要な電源として活用すると述べた点を評価し、「原発が必要不可欠であることについて、政府はぶれることのないメッセージを出してほしい」と要請した。
If it is going to ask local governments hosting nuclear power plants to cooperate, the Noda administration must make it clear it has broken from the idea of making the country's energy policy free from its dependence on nuclear power, a position advocated by former Prime Minister Naoto Kan and other government leaders although there were no prospects for its realization.
立地自治体に協力を求める以上、野田政権は菅前首相らの唱えた、展望なき「脱原発」からの決別を明確にするべきである。
On the other hand, Nishikawa said with a strong sense of dissatisfaction that the efforts and contributions made by local governments and communities hosting nuclear plants have not necessarily been understood by the areas that consume the electricity.
一方で知事は、原発を受け入れてきた地元の努力や貢献が「電力を消費する地域に必ずしも理解されていない」と、強い不満を示した。
During a press conference following his talks with Edano, the governor said the prefectural government will make the ultimate decision on whether the reactors should be restarted.
その後の記者会見では、再稼働の是非は「最終的には立地県が判断すべきだ」とも述べた。
He likely intended to refute criticism that the government's judgment on the restart was too hasty, an opinion voiced by governors of the neighboring prefectures of Shiga and Kyoto and by Toru Hashimoto, mayor of Osaka, a major consumer of the power generated from the KEPCO plant.
滋賀、京都の両知事や、電力の大量消費地である大阪市の橋下徹市長が、政府の再稼働判断は拙速だと批判しているためだろう。
It was also made apparently in opposition to Edano's earlier remark that the government needs to win the understanding not merely of the local governments hosting the plant but also of the nation, as a major accident at the plant would affect the entire country.
枝野氏が「日本全国が地元」と発言したことへの反発もある。
Needless to say, it is important to win understanding for the restart from neighboring governments. But the central government has to give the most weight to the local governments hosting the plant.
もちろん、周辺の自治体から理解を得ることは重要だが、政府は立地自治体の意向を最大限に尊重する必要がある。
===
Power shortage looms
If the nuclear reactors suspended for regular inspections are not restarted, all 54 of the nation's reactors will become idle in early May. In particular, the area in which the Oi plant is located and that is covered by the supply of electricity generated by KEPCO is expected to suffer a power shortage of up to about 20 percent this summer.
定期検査で止めた原発を再稼働しなければ、５月上旬に全原発５４基が停止する。特に大飯原発のある関電管内では今夏、最大約２０％の電力不足が予想される。
During a press conference Friday, Edano said power outages and shortages would significantly affect such socially disadvantaged people as the sick and the elderly.
枝野氏は１３日の記者会見で、再稼働の必要性に関連し、「停電や電力不足は病気の人や高齢者など社会的弱者に大きなしわ寄せを与える」などと指摘した。
He also said it was by no means permissible to bring about a power crisis by siding with optimists who say power supply and demand could be managed somehow through power-saving efforts or other measures. He is quite right.
節電などで何とかなるとの楽観論にくみして、電力危機を招くことは「到底許されない」とも強調した。妥当な認識だ。
If we replace nuclear power generation with thermal power, fuel costs for this fiscal year will increase by as much as 3.1 trillion yen for the whole nation.
原発を火力で代替すると、今年度の燃料コストは全国で３・１兆円も増える。
Therefore Edano is not going too far to say that within the near future the service areas covered by KEPCO may be asked to accept a hike in their utility charges.
枝野氏が「関電管内も遠からず、電力料金の値上げをお願いせざるを得ない」と言うのも、決して大げさではない。
Sufficient consideration should be given to the economic aspect of the power supply so the nation's economy is not adversely affected by such developments as the hollowing-out of industry.
産業空洞化などで日本経済に打撃を与えぬよう、経済性への配慮を欠いてはなるまい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 15, 2012)
（2012年4月15日01時25分 読売新聞）