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2014年01月24日
「ギョーザ」判決 中国産食品の信頼確保が課題
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 22, 2014
After poisoning sentence, confidence in China's food exports must be ensured
「ギョーザ」判決 中国産食品の信頼確保が課題（1月22日付・読売社説）
How can the safety of the inexpensive Chinese food products that are eaten in Japan be ensured? This remains an important task facing both nations.
安価な中国産食品の安全性をいかに確保するかは、今なお日中双方にとって重要な課題だ。
A Chinese defendant in the case involving the poisoning of frozen gyoza dumplings, which came to light in 2008, has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
２００８年に発覚した中国製冷凍ギョーザ中毒事件で、中国人被告に無期懲役が言い渡された。
The defendant, then a temporary worker at a manufacturer of frozen gyoza, snuck into a freezing room at a factory in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, and injected organic phosphate insecticide into packages of gyoza, according to the ruling handed down by a court in the city Monday. The man wanted to cause a stir through the act, the sentence said, and through it push for better working conditions.
中国河北省石家荘市の裁判所の判決によると、冷凍ギョーザの製造企業の臨時従業員だった被告は、工場内の冷凍庫に侵入し、注射器で有機リン系殺虫剤をギョーザに注入した。騒ぎを起こし、待遇改善を訴えたかったという。
Ten people in three families in Chiba and Hyogo prefectures developed symptoms of poisoning after eating imported gyoza that had been poisoned. One became temporarily unconscious. Several victims in China suffered similar symptoms as well.
ギョーザを食べた千葉と兵庫の３家族１０人が中毒症状を起こし、１人が一時意識不明となった。中国国内でも被害者が出た。
The Shijiazhuang court had every reason to conclude the defendant’s behavior constituted a serious premeditated crime that damaged the health of a number of people.
判決が「計画的で不特定多数の健康に被害を与えた悪質な犯行」と断じたのは当然だ。
In the initial stages of the incident, the Chinese government attempted to blame the whole matter on the Japanese side, insisting it was “extremely unlikely pesticide was put [into the gyoza] in our country.”
この事件で、中国政府は当初、「国内で殺虫剤が混入された可能性は極めて小さい」と主張し、日本に責任転嫁しようとした。
Japan refuted this, basing its conclusions on evidence that included the results of scientific tests on the pesticide injected into the gyoza. The matter developed into a diplomatic row between the two nations.
混入された殺虫剤の科学鑑定結果などをもとに、日本側は反論し、外交問題に発展した。
However, an extensive investigation by China found the poisoning had in fact resulted from the deliberate injection of a toxic substance into the gyoza at the Chinese factory.
長期にわたる中国側捜査の結果、中国の工場内における人為的な毒物混入だったと判明した。
Tainted image
The case greatly tarnished China’s image in Japan, contributing to a worsening of the bilateral relationship. Though the case can be described as an extraordinary crime committed by a single employee, the incident catalyzed distrust among Japanese over the safety of Chinese food products in general.
事件によって、日本での中国のイメージは大きく傷つき、日中関係の悪化に拍車がかかった。ひとりの従業員による特異な犯罪だったにもかかわらず、中国産食品全般への信頼が揺らぐきっかけになったとも言える。
The poisoned gyoza incident was followed by a number of similar cases in China. Incidents that have come to light include the distribution of powdered milk mixed with a toxic chemical and cadmium-contaminated rice. All of this has contributed to rising concerns over the safety of Chinese food products.
中国国内では、事件後も、粉ミルクへの有害化学物質混入やカドミウム汚染米流通などが相次いで表面化し、中国産食品の安全性への懸念は強まっている。
The poisoned gyoza case spurred Japanese companies to tighten quality controls on Chinese food products. Measures taken by the many manufacturers that operate in China and trading houses that market Chinese food for Japanese consumption include more stringent tests on the amounts of agricultural chemicals used at Chinese farms and on the quality of processing materials used at Chinese factories.
事件を機に、日本向けの中国産食品を扱う日系のメーカーや商社の多くは、農場での農薬使用量や加工原料のチェックを強化するなど、より徹底した品質管理を行うようになった。
Some Japanese companies have adopted measures to prevent toxic and other dangerous substances from contaminating their products by, for example, setting up security cameras at their factories in China and requiring workers to wear pocketless uniforms.
工場内に防犯カメラを設置したり、ポケットのない作業服を導入したりして、異物混入を防ぐ対策を講じている日系企業もある。
In fiscal 2012, the percentage of safety violations involving food imports from China fell below the overall average for all imported foods, according to Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry statistics released last year.
厚生労働省が昨年発表した１２年度の輸入食品監視統計によると、中国からの輸入食品のうち、安全面での違反件数の割合は、輸入食品全体の平均を下回った。
This has accompanied a recent rise in the volume of food imports from China. Though imports declined sharply after the poisoned gyoza case, the figure has almost returned to levels recorded prior to the incident.
ギョーザ事件の影響により、いったん大きく落ち込んだ中国からの食品の輸入量は、現在ではほぼ回復している。
It is difficult to imagine eliminating Chinese food products from our household menus, as they can be produced at lower costs. Further efforts must be made to thoroughly ensure the safety of Chinese food, by manufacturers and all other entities involved in both nations.
日本の食卓は、生産コストを低く抑えられる中国産食材を抜きにしては成り立たない。食の安全確保に万全を期す一層の努力が、双方の関係者に求められよう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 22, 2014)
（2014年1月22日01時33分 読売新聞）
After poisoning sentence, confidence in China's food exports must be ensured
「ギョーザ」判決 中国産食品の信頼確保が課題（1月22日付・読売社説）
How can the safety of the inexpensive Chinese food products that are eaten in Japan be ensured? This remains an important task facing both nations.
安価な中国産食品の安全性をいかに確保するかは、今なお日中双方にとって重要な課題だ。
A Chinese defendant in the case involving the poisoning of frozen gyoza dumplings, which came to light in 2008, has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
２００８年に発覚した中国製冷凍ギョーザ中毒事件で、中国人被告に無期懲役が言い渡された。
The defendant, then a temporary worker at a manufacturer of frozen gyoza, snuck into a freezing room at a factory in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, and injected organic phosphate insecticide into packages of gyoza, according to the ruling handed down by a court in the city Monday. The man wanted to cause a stir through the act, the sentence said, and through it push for better working conditions.
中国河北省石家荘市の裁判所の判決によると、冷凍ギョーザの製造企業の臨時従業員だった被告は、工場内の冷凍庫に侵入し、注射器で有機リン系殺虫剤をギョーザに注入した。騒ぎを起こし、待遇改善を訴えたかったという。
Ten people in three families in Chiba and Hyogo prefectures developed symptoms of poisoning after eating imported gyoza that had been poisoned. One became temporarily unconscious. Several victims in China suffered similar symptoms as well.
ギョーザを食べた千葉と兵庫の３家族１０人が中毒症状を起こし、１人が一時意識不明となった。中国国内でも被害者が出た。
The Shijiazhuang court had every reason to conclude the defendant’s behavior constituted a serious premeditated crime that damaged the health of a number of people.
判決が「計画的で不特定多数の健康に被害を与えた悪質な犯行」と断じたのは当然だ。
In the initial stages of the incident, the Chinese government attempted to blame the whole matter on the Japanese side, insisting it was “extremely unlikely pesticide was put [into the gyoza] in our country.”
この事件で、中国政府は当初、「国内で殺虫剤が混入された可能性は極めて小さい」と主張し、日本に責任転嫁しようとした。
Japan refuted this, basing its conclusions on evidence that included the results of scientific tests on the pesticide injected into the gyoza. The matter developed into a diplomatic row between the two nations.
混入された殺虫剤の科学鑑定結果などをもとに、日本側は反論し、外交問題に発展した。
However, an extensive investigation by China found the poisoning had in fact resulted from the deliberate injection of a toxic substance into the gyoza at the Chinese factory.
長期にわたる中国側捜査の結果、中国の工場内における人為的な毒物混入だったと判明した。
Tainted image
The case greatly tarnished China’s image in Japan, contributing to a worsening of the bilateral relationship. Though the case can be described as an extraordinary crime committed by a single employee, the incident catalyzed distrust among Japanese over the safety of Chinese food products in general.
事件によって、日本での中国のイメージは大きく傷つき、日中関係の悪化に拍車がかかった。ひとりの従業員による特異な犯罪だったにもかかわらず、中国産食品全般への信頼が揺らぐきっかけになったとも言える。
The poisoned gyoza incident was followed by a number of similar cases in China. Incidents that have come to light include the distribution of powdered milk mixed with a toxic chemical and cadmium-contaminated rice. All of this has contributed to rising concerns over the safety of Chinese food products.
中国国内では、事件後も、粉ミルクへの有害化学物質混入やカドミウム汚染米流通などが相次いで表面化し、中国産食品の安全性への懸念は強まっている。
The poisoned gyoza case spurred Japanese companies to tighten quality controls on Chinese food products. Measures taken by the many manufacturers that operate in China and trading houses that market Chinese food for Japanese consumption include more stringent tests on the amounts of agricultural chemicals used at Chinese farms and on the quality of processing materials used at Chinese factories.
事件を機に、日本向けの中国産食品を扱う日系のメーカーや商社の多くは、農場での農薬使用量や加工原料のチェックを強化するなど、より徹底した品質管理を行うようになった。
Some Japanese companies have adopted measures to prevent toxic and other dangerous substances from contaminating their products by, for example, setting up security cameras at their factories in China and requiring workers to wear pocketless uniforms.
工場内に防犯カメラを設置したり、ポケットのない作業服を導入したりして、異物混入を防ぐ対策を講じている日系企業もある。
In fiscal 2012, the percentage of safety violations involving food imports from China fell below the overall average for all imported foods, according to Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry statistics released last year.
厚生労働省が昨年発表した１２年度の輸入食品監視統計によると、中国からの輸入食品のうち、安全面での違反件数の割合は、輸入食品全体の平均を下回った。
This has accompanied a recent rise in the volume of food imports from China. Though imports declined sharply after the poisoned gyoza case, the figure has almost returned to levels recorded prior to the incident.
ギョーザ事件の影響により、いったん大きく落ち込んだ中国からの食品の輸入量は、現在ではほぼ回復している。
It is difficult to imagine eliminating Chinese food products from our household menus, as they can be produced at lower costs. Further efforts must be made to thoroughly ensure the safety of Chinese food, by manufacturers and all other entities involved in both nations.
日本の食卓は、生産コストを低く抑えられる中国産食材を抜きにしては成り立たない。食の安全確保に万全を期す一層の努力が、双方の関係者に求められよう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 22, 2014)
（2014年1月22日01時33分 読売新聞）
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2014年01月23日
マイナー自衛権 円滑な危機対処法制を整えよ
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 21, 2014
Urgent need to establish legal framework for minor self-defense rights
マイナー自衛権 円滑な危機対処法制を整えよ（1月21日付・読売社説）
With the deteriorating security environment around Japan, establishing a legal framework that would enable the nation to deal with a variety of crises promptly and effectively is an urgent need.
日本の安全保障環境が悪化する中、様々な危機に迅速かつ効果的に対処できる法制度を整えておくことが急務である。
The government is studying plans for legal arrangements and responses that fall under what have been called minor self-defense rights, which cover contingencies that stop short of full-scale military attacks.
政府が、本格的な武力攻撃には至らないような緊急事態に対する自衛権（マイナー自衛権）に関する法整備や対応策の検討を進めている。
Possible scenarios in which such defense rights would be exercised include the occupation of a remote island by armed special forces of an unknown nationality or disguised as fishermen, and intrusions into Japanese territorial waters by foreign submarines that continue underwater operations in defiance of requests to exit the area.
武装した国籍不明の特殊部隊や偽装漁民が離島を占拠する。他国の潜水艦が領海侵入し、退去要請に応じずに潜没航行を続ける。そんな事態を想定したものだ。
Last year, Chinese military vessels directed fire-control radar at Japanese vessels and the country unilaterally established an air defense identification zone. China’s intrusions into waters around the Senkaku Islands have become constant.
中国は昨年、海軍艦船のレーダー照射や一方的な防空識別圏の設定を強行した。尖閣諸島周辺での領海侵入も恒常化させている。
Rather than being an unrealistic scenario, the occupation of a remote island is a “clear and present danger.”
離島占拠などは、決して非現実的なシナリオではなく、「今そこにある危機」である。
There have been very few cases in contemporary warfare in which one country has launched an armed attack along with a large-scale invasion following a declaration of war. It is more likely that a small crisis would accidentally develop into a serious situation.
現代戦では、国家が宣戦布告し、大規模な侵攻を伴う武力攻撃を仕掛ける例は少ない。むしろ小さな危機が重大な事態に発展する蓋然性の方が高い。
We are pleased that the new National Defense Program Guidelines highlight the importance of coping with events that fall into “gray areas” between peace and overt hostilities. Countermeasures must be implemented flexibly and seamlessly based on the situation from the first signs of an emergency.
新防衛大綱が、平時と有事の中間にある「グレーゾーンの事態」への対応の重要性を指摘しているのは、適切だ。事態の兆候段階から、その進展に応じて、機動的でシームレスな（継ぎ目のない）対処が求められよう。
Weapon usage
The focal point is how to expand the Self-Defense Forces’ right to use weapons.
焦点は、自衛隊の武器使用権限の拡大である。
Currently, the SDF has only slightly more discretion to use force than the police do, even when patrolling the seas. There is a large difference between what is currently permitted and allowing the defense forces to be mobilized based on the right of self-defense, with the discretion to use all weaponry at their disposal. Thus, the current rules cannot be considered sufficient to deal with a heavily armed group that has occupied a remote island.
現在は、海上警備行動の発令時でも、武器使用の裁量は警察権より若干広いだけだ。自衛権に基づき、あらゆる武器使用が可能な防衛出動との落差は大きい。離島を占拠した重武装の集団などを制圧するのに十分とは言えない。
Ordering an SDF mobilization must meet three requirements: “an imminent and illegal incursion against this country,” “the lack of appropriate alternative measures” and “using the minimum amount of military force.” These are high hurdles to clear, and going through necessary procedures takes time.
一方で、防衛出動の発令には、「我が国に対する急迫不正の侵害」「他に適当な代替手段がない」「必要最小限の武力行使」という自衛権発動の３要件を満たす必要がある。そのハードルは高く、手続きにも時間がかかる。
Filling the legal gaps in the Self-Defense Forces Law, which sets these three conditions, could enable smooth crisis management and help strengthen Japan’s deterrent force.
この法の隙間を埋めることが円滑な危機対処を可能にする。抑止力の強化にもつながるはずだ。
One option could be, for example, revising the SDF law to establish new fields of duty, including territorial security, and giving the SDF discretion to use force accordingly.
例えば、自衛隊法を改正し、自衛隊に領域警備任務などを新設して、それに応じた武器使用権限を与えることが、一つの有力な選択肢となるだろう。
However, there is concern that if the requirements are set too strictly, the SDF could not effectively perform their new duties. It is essential to adopt a system that would enable the flexible mobilization of defense forces.
ただ、新たな任務の要件を厳しくしすぎると、実効性が失われる。自衛隊の柔軟な部隊運用が可能な仕組みにすることが肝心だ。
Minor self-defense rights fall within the range of individual self-defense rights. Discussions on the matter must be promoted along with the government’s revision of constitutional interpretation of the right of collective self-defense, which is indispensable for strengthening the Japan-U.S. alliance and furthering international cooperation.
マイナー自衛権は、個別的自衛権の範囲内である。日米同盟と国際連携の強化に不可欠な集団的自衛権に関する政府の憲法解釈の見直しと同時並行で、検討作業を着実に進めてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 21, 2014)
（2014年1月21日01時14分 読売新聞）
Urgent need to establish legal framework for minor self-defense rights
マイナー自衛権 円滑な危機対処法制を整えよ（1月21日付・読売社説）
With the deteriorating security environment around Japan, establishing a legal framework that would enable the nation to deal with a variety of crises promptly and effectively is an urgent need.
日本の安全保障環境が悪化する中、様々な危機に迅速かつ効果的に対処できる法制度を整えておくことが急務である。
The government is studying plans for legal arrangements and responses that fall under what have been called minor self-defense rights, which cover contingencies that stop short of full-scale military attacks.
政府が、本格的な武力攻撃には至らないような緊急事態に対する自衛権（マイナー自衛権）に関する法整備や対応策の検討を進めている。
Possible scenarios in which such defense rights would be exercised include the occupation of a remote island by armed special forces of an unknown nationality or disguised as fishermen, and intrusions into Japanese territorial waters by foreign submarines that continue underwater operations in defiance of requests to exit the area.
武装した国籍不明の特殊部隊や偽装漁民が離島を占拠する。他国の潜水艦が領海侵入し、退去要請に応じずに潜没航行を続ける。そんな事態を想定したものだ。
Last year, Chinese military vessels directed fire-control radar at Japanese vessels and the country unilaterally established an air defense identification zone. China’s intrusions into waters around the Senkaku Islands have become constant.
中国は昨年、海軍艦船のレーダー照射や一方的な防空識別圏の設定を強行した。尖閣諸島周辺での領海侵入も恒常化させている。
Rather than being an unrealistic scenario, the occupation of a remote island is a “clear and present danger.”
離島占拠などは、決して非現実的なシナリオではなく、「今そこにある危機」である。
There have been very few cases in contemporary warfare in which one country has launched an armed attack along with a large-scale invasion following a declaration of war. It is more likely that a small crisis would accidentally develop into a serious situation.
現代戦では、国家が宣戦布告し、大規模な侵攻を伴う武力攻撃を仕掛ける例は少ない。むしろ小さな危機が重大な事態に発展する蓋然性の方が高い。
We are pleased that the new National Defense Program Guidelines highlight the importance of coping with events that fall into “gray areas” between peace and overt hostilities. Countermeasures must be implemented flexibly and seamlessly based on the situation from the first signs of an emergency.
新防衛大綱が、平時と有事の中間にある「グレーゾーンの事態」への対応の重要性を指摘しているのは、適切だ。事態の兆候段階から、その進展に応じて、機動的でシームレスな（継ぎ目のない）対処が求められよう。
Weapon usage
The focal point is how to expand the Self-Defense Forces’ right to use weapons.
焦点は、自衛隊の武器使用権限の拡大である。
Currently, the SDF has only slightly more discretion to use force than the police do, even when patrolling the seas. There is a large difference between what is currently permitted and allowing the defense forces to be mobilized based on the right of self-defense, with the discretion to use all weaponry at their disposal. Thus, the current rules cannot be considered sufficient to deal with a heavily armed group that has occupied a remote island.
現在は、海上警備行動の発令時でも、武器使用の裁量は警察権より若干広いだけだ。自衛権に基づき、あらゆる武器使用が可能な防衛出動との落差は大きい。離島を占拠した重武装の集団などを制圧するのに十分とは言えない。
Ordering an SDF mobilization must meet three requirements: “an imminent and illegal incursion against this country,” “the lack of appropriate alternative measures” and “using the minimum amount of military force.” These are high hurdles to clear, and going through necessary procedures takes time.
一方で、防衛出動の発令には、「我が国に対する急迫不正の侵害」「他に適当な代替手段がない」「必要最小限の武力行使」という自衛権発動の３要件を満たす必要がある。そのハードルは高く、手続きにも時間がかかる。
Filling the legal gaps in the Self-Defense Forces Law, which sets these three conditions, could enable smooth crisis management and help strengthen Japan’s deterrent force.
この法の隙間を埋めることが円滑な危機対処を可能にする。抑止力の強化にもつながるはずだ。
One option could be, for example, revising the SDF law to establish new fields of duty, including territorial security, and giving the SDF discretion to use force accordingly.
例えば、自衛隊法を改正し、自衛隊に領域警備任務などを新設して、それに応じた武器使用権限を与えることが、一つの有力な選択肢となるだろう。
However, there is concern that if the requirements are set too strictly, the SDF could not effectively perform their new duties. It is essential to adopt a system that would enable the flexible mobilization of defense forces.
ただ、新たな任務の要件を厳しくしすぎると、実効性が失われる。自衛隊の柔軟な部隊運用が可能な仕組みにすることが肝心だ。
Minor self-defense rights fall within the range of individual self-defense rights. Discussions on the matter must be promoted along with the government’s revision of constitutional interpretation of the right of collective self-defense, which is indispensable for strengthening the Japan-U.S. alliance and furthering international cooperation.
マイナー自衛権は、個別的自衛権の範囲内である。日米同盟と国際連携の強化に不可欠な集団的自衛権に関する政府の憲法解釈の見直しと同時並行で、検討作業を着実に進めてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 21, 2014)
（2014年1月21日01時14分 読売新聞）
2014年01月21日
センター試験 改革に功罪の検証は不可欠だ
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 18, 2014
Merits, demerits of natl center test must be examined to promote reform
センター試験 改革に功罪の検証は不可欠だ（1月18日付・読売社説）
The two-day test organized by the National Center for University Entrance Examinations, which begins Saturday, involves 560,000 students applying to enter 843 universities and junior colleges nationwide.
大学入試センター試験がきょうから２日間、実施される。
参加する大学・短大は８４３校で、志願者は５６万人にのぼる。
Many students no doubt studied hard day and night in preparation for the tests. We hope they can fully display their abilities.
多くの受験生が日夜、勉強に励んできたことだろう。試験では実力を存分に発揮してほしい。
The center and officials concerned at each university need to focus their minds to prevent a recurrence of such trouble as the erroneous distribution of test question papers that happened two years ago.
試験を実施する大学入試センターと各大学の担当者は、一昨年に起きた問題冊子の配布ミスなどのトラブルを繰り返さぬよう、気を引き締めて臨む必要がある。
The National Center Test for University Admissions was introduced in 1990 as a replacement for the standard preliminary test, opening the door for participation by private universities. Currently, about 90 percent of private universities and colleges participate.
センター試験は１９９０年に導入された。共通一次試験から衣替えし、私立大にも参加の道が開かれた。現在、私立大の約９割が利用している。
Some universities use the center test together with the system to hold exams for candidates recommended by high schools and conduct interviews through their admissions offices.
推薦入試や、面接などによるＡＯ（アドミッション・オフィス）入試と併用する大学もある。
It may be said that the center test has become established as the uniform test to determine whether examinees have acquired basic scholastic abilities needed for advancing to universities.
大学進学に必要な基礎的学力を身に着けているかどうかを判定するための共通試験として、定着してきたと言えるだろう。
Test questions, which take about two years to compile, are created by university teaching faculty members and others.
試験の問題は、大学教員らが２年近くの時間をかけて作成している。
The questions are regarded as reasonable because they do not include unfairly difficult or tricky problems.
難問奇問を排した良質な問題が多いと評価が高い。
The number of test items, on the other hand, has increased to 29 areas in six subjects, as high school curricula became subdivided. Each university and college can freely choose sub-subjects, and the number of them, in an a la carte approach. From the standpoint of examinees, however, the system may be too complicated.
一方、出題科目数は、高校の授業内容の細分化で６教科・２９科目にまで増えた。各大学はアラカルト方式によって、利用科目や科目数を自由に決められる。受験生から見ると、科目選択が複雑になり過ぎているのではないか。
Pressure on examinees
Furthermore, examinees are undeniably forced to face excessive mental stress given that results of the national center test, held only once a year, largely determine whether they succeed or fail to gain entrance into their desired universities.
加えて年１回の試験結果が受験の成否を大きく左右することが、受験生に過度の心理的負担を強いている面は否定できない。
Some observers have pointed out that it has become difficult to maintain the nationwide test under the current formula, in which more than 500,000 examinees sit for exams all at once at test venues across the country.
全国の会場で５０万人以上が一斉に受験する現行方式では、スムーズな運営が困難になっているとの指摘もある。
Discussions on reform of the national center test have been held at the Central Council for Education, in response to recommendations by the Education Rebuilding Implementation Council, a governmental advisory body, that propose the establishment of a new test method to assess achievement levels as the pillar of reform.
センター試験を巡っては、中央教育審議会で見直し論議が進んでいる。「達成度テスト」の創設を柱とする政府の教育再生実行会議の提言を受けたものだ。
The recommendations call for holding a basic test to measure basic achievement levels for high school students and establishing a development-level test to be utilized for general university exams. The panel also proposes allowing students to take each test more than once. The realization of these measures will significantly change the university entrance exam system.
提言は、高校生の基礎学力の到達度を測る「基礎」レベルと、大学の一般入試で活用する「発展」レベルのテストを新設し、それぞれ複数回の受験を認めるよう求めている。これが実現すれば、大学入試は大きく様変わりする。
We believe students should be given more opportunities to take tests.
挑戦する機会が増えるのは、受験生にとって望ましいことだ。
The question is how to deal with the selection of sub-subjects for the achievement level test. The many other issues to be studied include which organization will organize the test.
一方で、達成度テストには、出題科目はどうするのか、試験の運営はどこが担うのかといった検討すべき課題が多い。
Reform of the university entrance exam system will have a great impact on examinees and educational institutions.
入試改革は、受験生や教育現場に与える影響が極めて大きい。
Foremost, close examination is needed of the merits and demerits of the national center test before in-depth discussions are held.
まずは、センター試験の功罪をしっかりと検証し、議論を尽くすことが肝要だ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 18, 2014)
（2014年1月18日01時27分 読売新聞）
Merits, demerits of natl center test must be examined to promote reform
センター試験 改革に功罪の検証は不可欠だ（1月18日付・読売社説）
The two-day test organized by the National Center for University Entrance Examinations, which begins Saturday, involves 560,000 students applying to enter 843 universities and junior colleges nationwide.
大学入試センター試験がきょうから２日間、実施される。
参加する大学・短大は８４３校で、志願者は５６万人にのぼる。
Many students no doubt studied hard day and night in preparation for the tests. We hope they can fully display their abilities.
多くの受験生が日夜、勉強に励んできたことだろう。試験では実力を存分に発揮してほしい。
The center and officials concerned at each university need to focus their minds to prevent a recurrence of such trouble as the erroneous distribution of test question papers that happened two years ago.
試験を実施する大学入試センターと各大学の担当者は、一昨年に起きた問題冊子の配布ミスなどのトラブルを繰り返さぬよう、気を引き締めて臨む必要がある。
The National Center Test for University Admissions was introduced in 1990 as a replacement for the standard preliminary test, opening the door for participation by private universities. Currently, about 90 percent of private universities and colleges participate.
センター試験は１９９０年に導入された。共通一次試験から衣替えし、私立大にも参加の道が開かれた。現在、私立大の約９割が利用している。
Some universities use the center test together with the system to hold exams for candidates recommended by high schools and conduct interviews through their admissions offices.
推薦入試や、面接などによるＡＯ（アドミッション・オフィス）入試と併用する大学もある。
It may be said that the center test has become established as the uniform test to determine whether examinees have acquired basic scholastic abilities needed for advancing to universities.
大学進学に必要な基礎的学力を身に着けているかどうかを判定するための共通試験として、定着してきたと言えるだろう。
Test questions, which take about two years to compile, are created by university teaching faculty members and others.
試験の問題は、大学教員らが２年近くの時間をかけて作成している。
The questions are regarded as reasonable because they do not include unfairly difficult or tricky problems.
難問奇問を排した良質な問題が多いと評価が高い。
The number of test items, on the other hand, has increased to 29 areas in six subjects, as high school curricula became subdivided. Each university and college can freely choose sub-subjects, and the number of them, in an a la carte approach. From the standpoint of examinees, however, the system may be too complicated.
一方、出題科目数は、高校の授業内容の細分化で６教科・２９科目にまで増えた。各大学はアラカルト方式によって、利用科目や科目数を自由に決められる。受験生から見ると、科目選択が複雑になり過ぎているのではないか。
Pressure on examinees
Furthermore, examinees are undeniably forced to face excessive mental stress given that results of the national center test, held only once a year, largely determine whether they succeed or fail to gain entrance into their desired universities.
加えて年１回の試験結果が受験の成否を大きく左右することが、受験生に過度の心理的負担を強いている面は否定できない。
Some observers have pointed out that it has become difficult to maintain the nationwide test under the current formula, in which more than 500,000 examinees sit for exams all at once at test venues across the country.
全国の会場で５０万人以上が一斉に受験する現行方式では、スムーズな運営が困難になっているとの指摘もある。
Discussions on reform of the national center test have been held at the Central Council for Education, in response to recommendations by the Education Rebuilding Implementation Council, a governmental advisory body, that propose the establishment of a new test method to assess achievement levels as the pillar of reform.
センター試験を巡っては、中央教育審議会で見直し論議が進んでいる。「達成度テスト」の創設を柱とする政府の教育再生実行会議の提言を受けたものだ。
The recommendations call for holding a basic test to measure basic achievement levels for high school students and establishing a development-level test to be utilized for general university exams. The panel also proposes allowing students to take each test more than once. The realization of these measures will significantly change the university entrance exam system.
提言は、高校生の基礎学力の到達度を測る「基礎」レベルと、大学の一般入試で活用する「発展」レベルのテストを新設し、それぞれ複数回の受験を認めるよう求めている。これが実現すれば、大学入試は大きく様変わりする。
We believe students should be given more opportunities to take tests.
挑戦する機会が増えるのは、受験生にとって望ましいことだ。
The question is how to deal with the selection of sub-subjects for the achievement level test. The many other issues to be studied include which organization will organize the test.
一方で、達成度テストには、出題科目はどうするのか、試験の運営はどこが担うのかといった検討すべき課題が多い。
Reform of the university entrance exam system will have a great impact on examinees and educational institutions.
入試改革は、受験生や教育現場に与える影響が極めて大きい。
Foremost, close examination is needed of the merits and demerits of the national center test before in-depth discussions are held.
まずは、センター試験の功罪をしっかりと検証し、議論を尽くすことが肝要だ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 18, 2014)
（2014年1月18日01時27分 読売新聞）
2014年01月20日
東京都知事選 五輪返上論はどこまで本気か
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 18, 2014
Is Hosokawa serious about his call for Tokyo to decline hosting Olympics?
東京都知事選 五輪返上論はどこまで本気か（1月18日付・読売社説）
It is meaningful to discuss the issue of nuclear energy in Tokyo, which consumes a massive amount of electricity, but it is unreasonable to exploit an election for the denuclearization movement.
電力の大消費地である東京で原発問題を議論するのは有意義だが、「脱原発」運動に選挙を利用するのは筋違いだ。
Former Prime Minister Morihiro Hosokawa, who has expressed his intention to run in the upcoming Tokyo gubernatorial election, is drawing public attention.
東京都知事選に出馬する意向を表明した細川護熙・元首相の動向が耳目を集めている。
Hosokawa has made an antinuclear agenda his main campaign pledge, saying, “I’m concerned that the issue of nuclear power determines the nation’s fate.” He is backed by former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, who advocates immediately breaking with nuclear power.
細川氏は、「原発の問題は国の存亡に関わるという危機感を持っている」と強調し、脱原発を前面に掲げた。原発即時ゼロを唱える小泉元首相が支援する。
Both Hosokawa and Koizumi enjoyed high cabinet approval ratings as prime minister. They are adopting election tactics that seek to make the most of the wide public popularity they once enjoyed.
細川、小泉両氏は、いずれも首相時代、内閣支持率が高かった。かつての国民的人気をあてにした選挙戦術である。
The Tokyo metropolitan government is certainly a major shareholder of Tokyo Electric Power Co. Yet, 50.1 percent of TEPCO shares are owned by the government’s Nuclear Damage Liability Facilitation Fund, which aims to resume operation of the nation’s unclear power stations. It would be irresponsible of Hosokawa to argue that he would be able to stop the restart of nuclear reactors.
ただ、都は東京電力の主要株主ではあるが、東電株の５０・１％は原発再稼働を目指す政府の原子力損害賠償支援機構が保有する。細川氏が再稼働を阻止できるかのように主張するなら無責任だ。
What must not be overlooked is how Koizumi has positioned the gubernatorial election. He said the election will be a “war between the group that says Japan can grow with zero nuclear power plants and the group that says it cannot.”
看過できないのは、小泉氏が都知事選を、「原発ゼロでも日本は発展できるというグループと、原発なくして日本は発展できないというグループでの争いだ」と位置付けたことである。
He should not simplify the issue of nuclear energy into a choice between two options—zero nuclear power and nuclear promotion—making light of such complicated factors as the possible effect on industries and household finances, measures to cope with global warming and energy security.
産業や家計への影響、地球温暖化対策、エネルギーの安全保障といった複雑な要因を軽視し、原発ゼロか、推進か、と二者択一で問題を単純化すべきではない。
Simplistic ideas not enough
Hosokawa has postponed his official press conference on his candidacy twice already, apparently because he has been unable to prepare his election pledges. This illustrates the fact that simplistic ideas do not prepare a person to cope with the variety of problems the Tokyo metropolitan government is facing.
細川氏の正式な記者会見は、２度も延期されている。公約の準備が整わないからだ。付け焼き刃的な発想だけでは、都政の抱える様々な課題に対処できないことの表れとも言えるだろう。
When Tokyo won its bid for the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics last year, Hosokawa called for Tokyo to renounce its selection as host, saying, “Tokyo should have declined to accept the decision because we still have the nuclear problem.” We wonder how serious he is.
細川氏は昨年、２０２０年の東京五輪・パラリンピック開催が決まったことについて、「原発問題があるから辞退すべきだった」との返上論を述べていた。どこまで本気なのだろうか。
The upcoming gubernatorial election will be held because former Gov. Naoki Inose resigned over his suspicious borrowing of \50 million in cash from hospital operator Tokushukai. Therefore, we believe Hosokawa should explain his borrowing of \100 million from the Tokyo Sagawa Kyubin parcel company, which led to his resignation as prime minister.
今回は、猪瀬直樹前知事が５０００万円借入金問題で辞職しての出直し選挙だ。それだけに、細川氏には、首相辞任の要因となった東京佐川急便からの１億円借り入れについて説明が求められる。
Meanwhile, former Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Yoichi Masuzoe, another leading candidate, expressed his determination to pursue the “best Olympics in history,” antidisaster measures, improved medical and nursing care services, and employment measures. We would like Masuzoe to clearly state during the election campaign what concrete measures he plans.
一方、舛添要一・元厚生労働相は記者会見で、「史上最高の五輪」を目指すことや、防災対策、医療・介護の充実、雇用対策などに意欲を示した。具体的な方策を選挙戦で明らかにしてもらいたい。
As for nuclear energy, Masuzoe said he will aim to create a society that does not depend on nuclear power generation, instead of immediately reducing nuclear energy use to zero. He also said he would promote energy-saving measures in Tokyo, making efforts to expand the use of renewable energy.
原発に関しては、即時ゼロではなく「原発に依存しない社会」を作ると述べる一方、東京で省エネを進め、再生可能エネルギー拡大へ努力すると語っている。
The main question in the race to choose the face of the metropolis is which candidate has a clear vision of Tokyo’s future. Candidates must deepen their discussions through debate and other opportunities.
首都の顔を選ぶ都知事選で問われるのは、東京をどういう都市に変えていくのかという明確なビジョンだ。候補者同士の討論会などで、議論を深めるべきである。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 18, 2014)
（2014年1月18日01時27分 読売新聞）
Is Hosokawa serious about his call for Tokyo to decline hosting Olympics?
東京都知事選 五輪返上論はどこまで本気か（1月18日付・読売社説）
It is meaningful to discuss the issue of nuclear energy in Tokyo, which consumes a massive amount of electricity, but it is unreasonable to exploit an election for the denuclearization movement.
電力の大消費地である東京で原発問題を議論するのは有意義だが、「脱原発」運動に選挙を利用するのは筋違いだ。
Former Prime Minister Morihiro Hosokawa, who has expressed his intention to run in the upcoming Tokyo gubernatorial election, is drawing public attention.
東京都知事選に出馬する意向を表明した細川護熙・元首相の動向が耳目を集めている。
Hosokawa has made an antinuclear agenda his main campaign pledge, saying, “I’m concerned that the issue of nuclear power determines the nation’s fate.” He is backed by former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, who advocates immediately breaking with nuclear power.
細川氏は、「原発の問題は国の存亡に関わるという危機感を持っている」と強調し、脱原発を前面に掲げた。原発即時ゼロを唱える小泉元首相が支援する。
Both Hosokawa and Koizumi enjoyed high cabinet approval ratings as prime minister. They are adopting election tactics that seek to make the most of the wide public popularity they once enjoyed.
細川、小泉両氏は、いずれも首相時代、内閣支持率が高かった。かつての国民的人気をあてにした選挙戦術である。
The Tokyo metropolitan government is certainly a major shareholder of Tokyo Electric Power Co. Yet, 50.1 percent of TEPCO shares are owned by the government’s Nuclear Damage Liability Facilitation Fund, which aims to resume operation of the nation’s unclear power stations. It would be irresponsible of Hosokawa to argue that he would be able to stop the restart of nuclear reactors.
ただ、都は東京電力の主要株主ではあるが、東電株の５０・１％は原発再稼働を目指す政府の原子力損害賠償支援機構が保有する。細川氏が再稼働を阻止できるかのように主張するなら無責任だ。
What must not be overlooked is how Koizumi has positioned the gubernatorial election. He said the election will be a “war between the group that says Japan can grow with zero nuclear power plants and the group that says it cannot.”
看過できないのは、小泉氏が都知事選を、「原発ゼロでも日本は発展できるというグループと、原発なくして日本は発展できないというグループでの争いだ」と位置付けたことである。
He should not simplify the issue of nuclear energy into a choice between two options—zero nuclear power and nuclear promotion—making light of such complicated factors as the possible effect on industries and household finances, measures to cope with global warming and energy security.
産業や家計への影響、地球温暖化対策、エネルギーの安全保障といった複雑な要因を軽視し、原発ゼロか、推進か、と二者択一で問題を単純化すべきではない。
Simplistic ideas not enough
Hosokawa has postponed his official press conference on his candidacy twice already, apparently because he has been unable to prepare his election pledges. This illustrates the fact that simplistic ideas do not prepare a person to cope with the variety of problems the Tokyo metropolitan government is facing.
細川氏の正式な記者会見は、２度も延期されている。公約の準備が整わないからだ。付け焼き刃的な発想だけでは、都政の抱える様々な課題に対処できないことの表れとも言えるだろう。
When Tokyo won its bid for the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics last year, Hosokawa called for Tokyo to renounce its selection as host, saying, “Tokyo should have declined to accept the decision because we still have the nuclear problem.” We wonder how serious he is.
細川氏は昨年、２０２０年の東京五輪・パラリンピック開催が決まったことについて、「原発問題があるから辞退すべきだった」との返上論を述べていた。どこまで本気なのだろうか。
The upcoming gubernatorial election will be held because former Gov. Naoki Inose resigned over his suspicious borrowing of \50 million in cash from hospital operator Tokushukai. Therefore, we believe Hosokawa should explain his borrowing of \100 million from the Tokyo Sagawa Kyubin parcel company, which led to his resignation as prime minister.
今回は、猪瀬直樹前知事が５０００万円借入金問題で辞職しての出直し選挙だ。それだけに、細川氏には、首相辞任の要因となった東京佐川急便からの１億円借り入れについて説明が求められる。
Meanwhile, former Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Yoichi Masuzoe, another leading candidate, expressed his determination to pursue the “best Olympics in history,” antidisaster measures, improved medical and nursing care services, and employment measures. We would like Masuzoe to clearly state during the election campaign what concrete measures he plans.
一方、舛添要一・元厚生労働相は記者会見で、「史上最高の五輪」を目指すことや、防災対策、医療・介護の充実、雇用対策などに意欲を示した。具体的な方策を選挙戦で明らかにしてもらいたい。
As for nuclear energy, Masuzoe said he will aim to create a society that does not depend on nuclear power generation, instead of immediately reducing nuclear energy use to zero. He also said he would promote energy-saving measures in Tokyo, making efforts to expand the use of renewable energy.
原発に関しては、即時ゼロではなく「原発に依存しない社会」を作ると述べる一方、東京で省エネを進め、再生可能エネルギー拡大へ努力すると語っている。
The main question in the race to choose the face of the metropolis is which candidate has a clear vision of Tokyo’s future. Candidates must deepen their discussions through debate and other opportunities.
首都の顔を選ぶ都知事選で問われるのは、東京をどういう都市に変えていくのかという明確なビジョンだ。候補者同士の討論会などで、議論を深めるべきである。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 18, 2014)
（2014年1月18日01時27分 読売新聞）
2014年01月19日
認知症対策 生活習慣の改善も予防になる
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 17, 2014
Govt must promote healthy lifestyle from young age to ward off dementia
認知症対策 生活習慣の改善も予防になる（1月17日付・読売社説）
The number of elderly Japanese people suffering from dementia is increasing much faster than predicted. The government must devise measures to prevent and treat the condition as quickly as possible.
認知症の高齢者が、従来の予測を大幅に上回るペースで増えている。予防や診療の体制整備を急がねばならない。
According to an estimate by a research team of the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry, the number of elderly people diagnosed with dementia has reached 4.62 million. Research results by Kyushu University indicate the number is six times the level 20 years ago.
厚生労働省研究班の推計によると、認知症の高齢者は４６２万人に達する。過去２０年間で６倍に増えたという九州大の研究結果もある。
It must be noted that an increase in people suffering from diabetes, along with the quickly aging population, has boosted the number of dementia patients.
急速な高齢化に加え、糖尿病の増加が認知症の患者数を押し上げている事実は見逃せない。
Domestic and overseas research has found that diabetics are about twice as likely as those without diabetes to develop Alzheimer’s-type dementia.
国内外の調査で、糖尿病を患う人は、アルツハイマー型認知症の発症リスクが２倍前後に高まることが分かってきた。
Alzheimer’s-type dementia develops as a result of the accumulation of abnormal protein in the brain. People are more likely to develop this type of dementia if they become diabetic and a large amount of insulin is produced in their bodies, because insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels, also interrupts the dissolution of the protein and thus promotes its accumulation.
アルツハイマー型認知症は、脳内に異常なたんぱく質がたまって発症する。糖尿病になり、血糖値を下げるインスリンが多量に分泌されると、このたんぱく質が分解されにくくなって蓄積し、認知症が起きやすくなるという。
Major causes for diabetes are overeating and obesity resulting from insufficient exercise. According to some data, people who pay attention to their lifestyles by exercising regularly and eating Japanese and other healthy foods are less likely to develop diabetes or dementia.
糖尿病は、食べ過ぎや運動不足による肥満が主な原因だ。運動や和食を中心とした食事で生活習慣に気を配っている人は、糖尿病ばかりでなく、認知症の発症リスクが低いとのデータがある。
The health ministry should publicize such information, which could help people prevent these health problems by paying attention to their lifestyles from a young age.
厚労省は、こうした情報を周知すべきだ。若い頃から生活習慣に注意して予防につなげたい。
As many as 4 million people are said to suffer from “mild cognitive impairment,” believed to be a stage before dementia. Symptoms include impaired memory and judgment. If treated at an early stage, however, it can likely be prevented from progressing to dementia, doctors say. We hope measures to prevent the condition will be established as soon as possible.
認知症の前段階とされる「軽度認知障害」も４００万人に上る。記憶力や判断力の低下といった症状が表れる。早く対処すれば、認知症への進行を抑えられる可能性があるという。予防法の早期確立が期待される。
Dementia could be controlled
It is still important to diagnose dementia as early as possible, even if a patient has already developed symptoms. If treated properly, dementia patients could recover in cases where the formation of a hematoma in the brain due to a blow to the head caused it, for instance.
認知症になった場合でも、早期発見は重要である。頭部を強打したことで血腫が脳内にできた場合など、治療により回復可能なケースがあるからだ。
However, the conditions of many patients deteriorate if left undiagnosed. It is necessary to develop a system that can render an accurate diagnosis by increasing expert-staffed outpatient “forgetful” clinics around the country.
だが、診断がつかないまま、症状が悪化する患者は少なくない。専門医による「物忘れ外来」を普及させるなど、正確に診断できる態勢作りが必要だ。
If diagnosed early, it might be possible for people with dementia to continue their family life and jobs longer with the understanding and cooperation of their families and people around them.
早期に診断がつけば、医師の指導のもと、家族や周囲の理解と協力で、より長く家庭生活や仕事を続けることも可能だろう。
Developing measures to deal with dementia is a common concern among advanced countries, whose populations are aging quickly.
認知症対策は、高齢化が進む先進国共通の課題となっている。
Japan, the United States and six other advanced countries held the first G-8 Dementia Summit last month in London. They agreed to drastically increase research funds for dementia and share research data with the aim of establishing treatment methods by 2025.
日米など主要８か国は先月、ロンドンで初の「Ｇ８認知症サミット」を開いた。２０２５年までの治療法確立を目指し、研究費の大幅な増額や研究データの共有を図ることで合意した。
International cooperation is essential to study dementia, which still has many unexplained elements. We think Japan, whose population is aging the fastest in the world, should lead the research. The government should play a leading role and mobilize all Japanese researchers in this field to tackle the issue.
未解明な部分が多い認知症の研究に、国際協力は欠かせない。世界で最も速く高齢化する日本が主導すべきだ。政府が先頭に立ち、研究陣の総力を結集して臨んでもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 17, 2014)
（2014年1月17日01時24分 読売新聞）
Govt must promote healthy lifestyle from young age to ward off dementia
認知症対策 生活習慣の改善も予防になる（1月17日付・読売社説）
The number of elderly Japanese people suffering from dementia is increasing much faster than predicted. The government must devise measures to prevent and treat the condition as quickly as possible.
認知症の高齢者が、従来の予測を大幅に上回るペースで増えている。予防や診療の体制整備を急がねばならない。
According to an estimate by a research team of the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry, the number of elderly people diagnosed with dementia has reached 4.62 million. Research results by Kyushu University indicate the number is six times the level 20 years ago.
厚生労働省研究班の推計によると、認知症の高齢者は４６２万人に達する。過去２０年間で６倍に増えたという九州大の研究結果もある。
It must be noted that an increase in people suffering from diabetes, along with the quickly aging population, has boosted the number of dementia patients.
急速な高齢化に加え、糖尿病の増加が認知症の患者数を押し上げている事実は見逃せない。
Domestic and overseas research has found that diabetics are about twice as likely as those without diabetes to develop Alzheimer’s-type dementia.
国内外の調査で、糖尿病を患う人は、アルツハイマー型認知症の発症リスクが２倍前後に高まることが分かってきた。
Alzheimer’s-type dementia develops as a result of the accumulation of abnormal protein in the brain. People are more likely to develop this type of dementia if they become diabetic and a large amount of insulin is produced in their bodies, because insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels, also interrupts the dissolution of the protein and thus promotes its accumulation.
アルツハイマー型認知症は、脳内に異常なたんぱく質がたまって発症する。糖尿病になり、血糖値を下げるインスリンが多量に分泌されると、このたんぱく質が分解されにくくなって蓄積し、認知症が起きやすくなるという。
Major causes for diabetes are overeating and obesity resulting from insufficient exercise. According to some data, people who pay attention to their lifestyles by exercising regularly and eating Japanese and other healthy foods are less likely to develop diabetes or dementia.
糖尿病は、食べ過ぎや運動不足による肥満が主な原因だ。運動や和食を中心とした食事で生活習慣に気を配っている人は、糖尿病ばかりでなく、認知症の発症リスクが低いとのデータがある。
The health ministry should publicize such information, which could help people prevent these health problems by paying attention to their lifestyles from a young age.
厚労省は、こうした情報を周知すべきだ。若い頃から生活習慣に注意して予防につなげたい。
As many as 4 million people are said to suffer from “mild cognitive impairment,” believed to be a stage before dementia. Symptoms include impaired memory and judgment. If treated at an early stage, however, it can likely be prevented from progressing to dementia, doctors say. We hope measures to prevent the condition will be established as soon as possible.
認知症の前段階とされる「軽度認知障害」も４００万人に上る。記憶力や判断力の低下といった症状が表れる。早く対処すれば、認知症への進行を抑えられる可能性があるという。予防法の早期確立が期待される。
Dementia could be controlled
It is still important to diagnose dementia as early as possible, even if a patient has already developed symptoms. If treated properly, dementia patients could recover in cases where the formation of a hematoma in the brain due to a blow to the head caused it, for instance.
認知症になった場合でも、早期発見は重要である。頭部を強打したことで血腫が脳内にできた場合など、治療により回復可能なケースがあるからだ。
However, the conditions of many patients deteriorate if left undiagnosed. It is necessary to develop a system that can render an accurate diagnosis by increasing expert-staffed outpatient “forgetful” clinics around the country.
だが、診断がつかないまま、症状が悪化する患者は少なくない。専門医による「物忘れ外来」を普及させるなど、正確に診断できる態勢作りが必要だ。
If diagnosed early, it might be possible for people with dementia to continue their family life and jobs longer with the understanding and cooperation of their families and people around them.
早期に診断がつけば、医師の指導のもと、家族や周囲の理解と協力で、より長く家庭生活や仕事を続けることも可能だろう。
Developing measures to deal with dementia is a common concern among advanced countries, whose populations are aging quickly.
認知症対策は、高齢化が進む先進国共通の課題となっている。
Japan, the United States and six other advanced countries held the first G-8 Dementia Summit last month in London. They agreed to drastically increase research funds for dementia and share research data with the aim of establishing treatment methods by 2025.
日米など主要８か国は先月、ロンドンで初の「Ｇ８認知症サミット」を開いた。２０２５年までの治療法確立を目指し、研究費の大幅な増額や研究データの共有を図ることで合意した。
International cooperation is essential to study dementia, which still has many unexplained elements. We think Japan, whose population is aging the fastest in the world, should lead the research. The government should play a leading role and mobilize all Japanese researchers in this field to tackle the issue.
未解明な部分が多い認知症の研究に、国際協力は欠かせない。世界で最も速く高齢化する日本が主導すべきだ。政府が先頭に立ち、研究陣の総力を結集して臨んでもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 17, 2014)
（2014年1月17日01時24分 読売新聞）
2014年01月18日
タイ反政府デモ 選挙実現へ混乱収拾が急務だ
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 16, 2014
Urgent steps must be taken to unsnarl chaos disrupting Thailand election
タイ反政府デモ 選挙実現へ混乱収拾が急務だ（1月16日付・読売社説）
Disorder in Thailand has become protracted as the factional conflict intensifies. It is desirable to explore a way to unsnarl the chaos so the general election can be held.
党派対立の激化によりタイの混乱が長期化している。総選挙の実現に向け、混乱収拾の道を模索することが望まれる。
Protests against the government led by Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra—a sister of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra—have been occurring frequently over the past two months in Bangkok, with demonstrators calling for Yingluck’s resignation.
首都バンコクでは２か月以上にわたり、タクシン元首相の妹、インラック首相の辞任を求める反タクシン派のデモが頻発している。
Since Monday, antigovernment protesters have occupied the key intersections of Bangkok and roads in front of government offices, partially paralyzing the functions of the capital city. The Yingluck administration has refrained from removing them by force, apparently for fear of a clash between the police and the protesters.
デモ隊は１３日から、主要交差点や官庁前道路などを占拠し、都市機能の一部が麻痺(まひ)する事態となった。インラック政権は、強制排除を控えている。警官隊とデモ隊の衝突を恐れているのだろう。
The latest wave of protests was triggered as the ruling Pheu Thai Party, in support of Thaksin, made a failed bid to push an amnesty bill through parliament that would have allowed Thaksin, who is in self-imposed exile to avoid jail time for a corruption conviction, to return to Thailand.
デモの発端は、タクシン派与党のタイ貢献党が、汚職罪で実刑判決を受けて国外に逃れているタクシン氏の帰国に道を開く恩赦法を成立させようとしたことだ。
This high-handed approach of the ruling party has brought about angry responses from anti-Thaksin forces, including the main opposition Democrat Party.
強引な姿勢が、最大野党・民主党など反タクシン派の反発を招いた。
In a bid to calm the political crisis, Yingluck dissolved the lower house and called for a general election slated for Feb. 2. Then the anti-Thaksin forces vowed to boycott the vote, while calling for Yingluck to step down and for a transition to an interim government comprised of nonelected representatives from various sectors to oversee political and electoral reforms before any new polls.
首相は混乱を収拾しようと、下院を解散し、２月２日投票の総選挙実施に打って出た。これに対し、反タクシン派は、選挙受け入れを拒否し、首相の辞任と、選挙を経ない各界代表による暫定統治への移行を要求した。
Undermining democracy
The pro-Thaksin party has paid particular attention to the poor, who make up a large part of the population, and enjoys overwhelming support among the poor and in rural areas. In recent general elections, the party has continuously been the victor. The anti-Thaksin forces have apparently concluded that there is no way for them to win in an election.
弱者対策に力を入れてきたタクシン派政党は、人口が多い貧困層や農村で圧倒的に支持されており、近年の総選挙で連勝中だ。反タクシン派は、選挙では勝ち目がないと判断したとみられる。
Boycotting the vote and disturbing public order to make others accept their claim, primarily on the pretext of the opposition having little chance of winning an election, is just a self-serving stance in total disregard of democratic procedures. The right thing to do is for them to approve the holding of the election.
勝算が乏しいことを理由に、選挙を拒否し、秩序を乱す行動で主張を通そうとするのは、民主的手続きを無視した利己的な態度と言わざるを得ない。選挙を受け入れるのが筋である。
Yet it now appears to be difficult to hold the election as planned.
ただ、予定通りに選挙を実施するのは、もはや困難に見える。
Due to the obstruction by anti-Thaksin forces, there are many electoral districts that are devoid of candidates. Even if the election was forcibly carried out, there wouldn’t be enough members to fulfill the constitutional provisions for convening the lower house.
反タクシン派の妨害によって、多くの選挙区で候補者が不在となったため、選挙を強行しても、憲法規定上、下院の招集に必要な議員数がそろわない。
Accordingly, the Election Committee has called for Yingluck to delay the election schedule.
選挙管理委員会は、インラック首相に対して、選挙の日程を延期するよう求めている。
There are some within the anti-Thaksin forces who want military intervention. Even if the government was toppled with such means, it would only invite retaliation from pro-Thaksin forces.
反タクシン派内には、軍の介入を望む声もあるという。たとえ、そうした手段で政権を倒しても、タクシン派からの報復を招くだけではないか。
The current turmoil is set to affect the economy.
混乱は、経済にも影響を及ぼしつつある。
Some Japanese companies have taken measures such as shutting down the buildings of their local affiliates. It has also been reported that the government’s procedures for approving large-scale investment projects have been suspended.
一部日本企業は、現地法人ビルの閉鎖などの措置をとった。大規模投資計画に対する政府の承認手続きも停止しているという。
Thailand, which has achieved its economic growth through foreign capital investments from countries such as Japan, has been called “an honor student among the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.” Such global confidence accredited to the country has begun to be undermined.
タイは、日本など海外からの投資で成長し、「東南アジア諸国連合（ＡＳＥＡＮ）の優等生」と呼ばれてきた。その国際的な信用が揺らぎ始めている。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 16, 2014)
（2014年1月16日01時33分 読売新聞）
Urgent steps must be taken to unsnarl chaos disrupting Thailand election
タイ反政府デモ 選挙実現へ混乱収拾が急務だ（1月16日付・読売社説）
Disorder in Thailand has become protracted as the factional conflict intensifies. It is desirable to explore a way to unsnarl the chaos so the general election can be held.
党派対立の激化によりタイの混乱が長期化している。総選挙の実現に向け、混乱収拾の道を模索することが望まれる。
Protests against the government led by Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra—a sister of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra—have been occurring frequently over the past two months in Bangkok, with demonstrators calling for Yingluck’s resignation.
首都バンコクでは２か月以上にわたり、タクシン元首相の妹、インラック首相の辞任を求める反タクシン派のデモが頻発している。
Since Monday, antigovernment protesters have occupied the key intersections of Bangkok and roads in front of government offices, partially paralyzing the functions of the capital city. The Yingluck administration has refrained from removing them by force, apparently for fear of a clash between the police and the protesters.
デモ隊は１３日から、主要交差点や官庁前道路などを占拠し、都市機能の一部が麻痺(まひ)する事態となった。インラック政権は、強制排除を控えている。警官隊とデモ隊の衝突を恐れているのだろう。
The latest wave of protests was triggered as the ruling Pheu Thai Party, in support of Thaksin, made a failed bid to push an amnesty bill through parliament that would have allowed Thaksin, who is in self-imposed exile to avoid jail time for a corruption conviction, to return to Thailand.
デモの発端は、タクシン派与党のタイ貢献党が、汚職罪で実刑判決を受けて国外に逃れているタクシン氏の帰国に道を開く恩赦法を成立させようとしたことだ。
This high-handed approach of the ruling party has brought about angry responses from anti-Thaksin forces, including the main opposition Democrat Party.
強引な姿勢が、最大野党・民主党など反タクシン派の反発を招いた。
In a bid to calm the political crisis, Yingluck dissolved the lower house and called for a general election slated for Feb. 2. Then the anti-Thaksin forces vowed to boycott the vote, while calling for Yingluck to step down and for a transition to an interim government comprised of nonelected representatives from various sectors to oversee political and electoral reforms before any new polls.
首相は混乱を収拾しようと、下院を解散し、２月２日投票の総選挙実施に打って出た。これに対し、反タクシン派は、選挙受け入れを拒否し、首相の辞任と、選挙を経ない各界代表による暫定統治への移行を要求した。
Undermining democracy
The pro-Thaksin party has paid particular attention to the poor, who make up a large part of the population, and enjoys overwhelming support among the poor and in rural areas. In recent general elections, the party has continuously been the victor. The anti-Thaksin forces have apparently concluded that there is no way for them to win in an election.
弱者対策に力を入れてきたタクシン派政党は、人口が多い貧困層や農村で圧倒的に支持されており、近年の総選挙で連勝中だ。反タクシン派は、選挙では勝ち目がないと判断したとみられる。
Boycotting the vote and disturbing public order to make others accept their claim, primarily on the pretext of the opposition having little chance of winning an election, is just a self-serving stance in total disregard of democratic procedures. The right thing to do is for them to approve the holding of the election.
勝算が乏しいことを理由に、選挙を拒否し、秩序を乱す行動で主張を通そうとするのは、民主的手続きを無視した利己的な態度と言わざるを得ない。選挙を受け入れるのが筋である。
Yet it now appears to be difficult to hold the election as planned.
ただ、予定通りに選挙を実施するのは、もはや困難に見える。
Due to the obstruction by anti-Thaksin forces, there are many electoral districts that are devoid of candidates. Even if the election was forcibly carried out, there wouldn’t be enough members to fulfill the constitutional provisions for convening the lower house.
反タクシン派の妨害によって、多くの選挙区で候補者が不在となったため、選挙を強行しても、憲法規定上、下院の招集に必要な議員数がそろわない。
Accordingly, the Election Committee has called for Yingluck to delay the election schedule.
選挙管理委員会は、インラック首相に対して、選挙の日程を延期するよう求めている。
There are some within the anti-Thaksin forces who want military intervention. Even if the government was toppled with such means, it would only invite retaliation from pro-Thaksin forces.
反タクシン派内には、軍の介入を望む声もあるという。たとえ、そうした手段で政権を倒しても、タクシン派からの報復を招くだけではないか。
The current turmoil is set to affect the economy.
混乱は、経済にも影響を及ぼしつつある。
Some Japanese companies have taken measures such as shutting down the buildings of their local affiliates. It has also been reported that the government’s procedures for approving large-scale investment projects have been suspended.
一部日本企業は、現地法人ビルの閉鎖などの措置をとった。大規模投資計画に対する政府の承認手続きも停止しているという。
Thailand, which has achieved its economic growth through foreign capital investments from countries such as Japan, has been called “an honor student among the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.” Such global confidence accredited to the country has begun to be undermined.
タイは、日本など海外からの投資で成長し、「東南アジア諸国連合（ＡＳＥＡＮ）の優等生」と呼ばれてきた。その国際的な信用が揺らぎ始めている。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 16, 2014)
（2014年1月16日01時33分 読売新聞）
2014年01月17日
アフリカ外交 「日本らしさ」を互恵に生かせ
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 15, 2014
Japanese drive to help Africa offers benefits for both sides
アフリカ外交 「日本らしさ」を互恵に生かせ（1月15日付・読売社説）
The world has its eyes on Africa, a growing market blessed with rich natural resources. Japan, for its part, should strengthen relations with African countries, a move that will surely help revitalize the Japanese economy.
豊かな天然資源を有する成長市場、アフリカに世界が注目している。日本も関係を一層強化しなければならない。それが日本経済の活性化にも好影響を与えるだろう。
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has just wrapped up a visit to three African countries: Cote d’Ivoire, Mozambique and Ethiopia. The trip marked the first visit to sub-Saharan Africa by a Japanese prime minister since Junichiro Koizumi toured the region in 2006.
安倍首相がアフリカのコートジボワール、モザンビーク、エチオピア３か国を訪問した。首相のサハラ砂漠以南のアフリカ歴訪は、２００６年の小泉首相以来だ。
Cote d’Ivoire is a key logistical hub for West Africa, and Mozambique boasts a wealth of natural gas and other resources. Ethiopia, home to the headquarters of the African Union, is regarded as a political center of the continent. Abe’s choice to visit these three countries shows Japan’s consideration extends to the whole of Africa.
コートジボワールは西アフリカの物流拠点で、モザンビークは天然ガスなどに恵まれている。エチオピアにはアフリカ連合（ＡＵ）本部があり、政治の中心と位置づけられている。訪問先にアフリカ全体への目配りがうかがえる。
In June last year, the Abe administration invited African leaders from 51 nations or their deputies to the fifth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 5). Abe’s recent visit to the three nations was partly aimed at reinforcing a relationship of trust with African leaders.
安倍政権は昨年６月、アフリカ各国の首脳を招いて第５回アフリカ開発会議（ＴＩＣＡＤ５）を開いた。今回の歴訪は首脳との信頼関係を強める目的もあった。
Abe delivered a policy address in Ethiopia stressing the need to build mutually beneficial ties between Japan and African countries.
首相がエチオピアで行った政策スピーチは、日本とアフリカの互恵関係構築に重点を置いた。
The speech drew attention to Japanese companies operating in Africa and their efforts to train local workers while valuing the ingenuity of each individual. Strengthening the relationship between companies like these and the peoples of Africa will foster a win-win relationship, benefiting both Japan and African nations, he underscored.
進出した日本企業が地元の従業員教育に努め、一人一人の創意工夫を大切にしていることを紹介した。日本企業との関係が強まれば、日本とアフリカは共に利益を得る「ウイン・ウインの関係」になれるとも強調した。
Creating mutual benefits
Abe announced Japanese government policies focusing on youth and women, aimed at developing human resources by promoting vocational training and welcoming African students to Japan, as well as providing support for childbirth and child rearing.
政府としては、アフリカの若者と女性に焦点を当て、職業訓練や留学生受け入れなどの人材育成に加え、出産や子育てへの支援を進める方針も表明した。
In recent years, China has drastically expanded its presence in Africa with investments and loans. But the country has been criticized for unilaterally diverting resources and profits from Africa to itself. Many Chinese companies import workers from China to work in Africa—a practice that does not help in increasing local employment.
アフリカには、中国が近年、投資や融資を急拡大している。だが、中国企業は、中国人労働者を流入させ、地元の雇用につながらず、資源や利益を一方的に自国に還元するだけだとの批判がある。
It is clear that Abe’s approach is to stress “Japaneseness” and to differentiate the country from China. Arriving in Africa accompanied by a delegation from the corporate sector was part of the effort to strengthen economic ties with Africa. Enhancing its presence in Africa is crucial for Japan.
首相が、中国と差別化を図り、「日本らしさ」をアピールした狙いは理解できる。今回、日本企業の代表を同行させたのも経済関係強化の一環と言えよう。アフリカでの日本の存在感をもっと高めていく必要がある。
Also of great importance is improving the environment for Japanese companies to help them make inroads into Africa. It will be necessary to make use of Japanese ODA in improving public infrastructure, such as roads and power plants.
肝要なのは、日本企業が進出しやすい環境を整えることだ。政府開発援助（ＯＤＡ）を活用して、道路や発電所などのインフラ（社会基盤）をますます充実させていかねばならない。
Sadly, more than a few regions in Africa are still plagued by terrorist attacks and shaken by political instability. South Sudan, for example, is on the verge of slipping into civil war. Japan should help restore stability in these areas by making stronger contributions in the realm of public safety.
アフリカにはなお、テロが横行し、政情が不安定な地域も少なくない。南スーダンは内戦に陥りかねない危機に直面している。日本は地域の安定のため、治安対策でもさらに貢献すべきだろう。
Abe has expressed a desire to make repeated visits to Africa. Japan must invest in joint endeavors through the public and private sectors to strengthen its ties with African countries from both mid- and long-term perspectives.
首相は「何度でもアフリカを訪れたい」と語った。官民が連携し、中長期的な視点で、アフリカと関係を深めていくべきである。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 15, 2014)
（2014年1月15日01時33分 読売新聞）
Japanese drive to help Africa offers benefits for both sides
アフリカ外交 「日本らしさ」を互恵に生かせ（1月15日付・読売社説）
The world has its eyes on Africa, a growing market blessed with rich natural resources. Japan, for its part, should strengthen relations with African countries, a move that will surely help revitalize the Japanese economy.
豊かな天然資源を有する成長市場、アフリカに世界が注目している。日本も関係を一層強化しなければならない。それが日本経済の活性化にも好影響を与えるだろう。
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has just wrapped up a visit to three African countries: Cote d’Ivoire, Mozambique and Ethiopia. The trip marked the first visit to sub-Saharan Africa by a Japanese prime minister since Junichiro Koizumi toured the region in 2006.
安倍首相がアフリカのコートジボワール、モザンビーク、エチオピア３か国を訪問した。首相のサハラ砂漠以南のアフリカ歴訪は、２００６年の小泉首相以来だ。
Cote d’Ivoire is a key logistical hub for West Africa, and Mozambique boasts a wealth of natural gas and other resources. Ethiopia, home to the headquarters of the African Union, is regarded as a political center of the continent. Abe’s choice to visit these three countries shows Japan’s consideration extends to the whole of Africa.
コートジボワールは西アフリカの物流拠点で、モザンビークは天然ガスなどに恵まれている。エチオピアにはアフリカ連合（ＡＵ）本部があり、政治の中心と位置づけられている。訪問先にアフリカ全体への目配りがうかがえる。
In June last year, the Abe administration invited African leaders from 51 nations or their deputies to the fifth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 5). Abe’s recent visit to the three nations was partly aimed at reinforcing a relationship of trust with African leaders.
安倍政権は昨年６月、アフリカ各国の首脳を招いて第５回アフリカ開発会議（ＴＩＣＡＤ５）を開いた。今回の歴訪は首脳との信頼関係を強める目的もあった。
Abe delivered a policy address in Ethiopia stressing the need to build mutually beneficial ties between Japan and African countries.
首相がエチオピアで行った政策スピーチは、日本とアフリカの互恵関係構築に重点を置いた。
The speech drew attention to Japanese companies operating in Africa and their efforts to train local workers while valuing the ingenuity of each individual. Strengthening the relationship between companies like these and the peoples of Africa will foster a win-win relationship, benefiting both Japan and African nations, he underscored.
進出した日本企業が地元の従業員教育に努め、一人一人の創意工夫を大切にしていることを紹介した。日本企業との関係が強まれば、日本とアフリカは共に利益を得る「ウイン・ウインの関係」になれるとも強調した。
Creating mutual benefits
Abe announced Japanese government policies focusing on youth and women, aimed at developing human resources by promoting vocational training and welcoming African students to Japan, as well as providing support for childbirth and child rearing.
政府としては、アフリカの若者と女性に焦点を当て、職業訓練や留学生受け入れなどの人材育成に加え、出産や子育てへの支援を進める方針も表明した。
In recent years, China has drastically expanded its presence in Africa with investments and loans. But the country has been criticized for unilaterally diverting resources and profits from Africa to itself. Many Chinese companies import workers from China to work in Africa—a practice that does not help in increasing local employment.
アフリカには、中国が近年、投資や融資を急拡大している。だが、中国企業は、中国人労働者を流入させ、地元の雇用につながらず、資源や利益を一方的に自国に還元するだけだとの批判がある。
It is clear that Abe’s approach is to stress “Japaneseness” and to differentiate the country from China. Arriving in Africa accompanied by a delegation from the corporate sector was part of the effort to strengthen economic ties with Africa. Enhancing its presence in Africa is crucial for Japan.
首相が、中国と差別化を図り、「日本らしさ」をアピールした狙いは理解できる。今回、日本企業の代表を同行させたのも経済関係強化の一環と言えよう。アフリカでの日本の存在感をもっと高めていく必要がある。
Also of great importance is improving the environment for Japanese companies to help them make inroads into Africa. It will be necessary to make use of Japanese ODA in improving public infrastructure, such as roads and power plants.
肝要なのは、日本企業が進出しやすい環境を整えることだ。政府開発援助（ＯＤＡ）を活用して、道路や発電所などのインフラ（社会基盤）をますます充実させていかねばならない。
Sadly, more than a few regions in Africa are still plagued by terrorist attacks and shaken by political instability. South Sudan, for example, is on the verge of slipping into civil war. Japan should help restore stability in these areas by making stronger contributions in the realm of public safety.
アフリカにはなお、テロが横行し、政情が不安定な地域も少なくない。南スーダンは内戦に陥りかねない危機に直面している。日本は地域の安定のため、治安対策でもさらに貢献すべきだろう。
Abe has expressed a desire to make repeated visits to Africa. Japan must invest in joint endeavors through the public and private sectors to strengthen its ties with African countries from both mid- and long-term perspectives.
首相は「何度でもアフリカを訪れたい」と語った。官民が連携し、中長期的な視点で、アフリカと関係を深めていくべきである。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 15, 2014)
（2014年1月15日01時33分 読売新聞）
2014年01月16日
日本経済再生 効果的な成長戦略に練り直せ
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 14, 2014
Govt must reshape growth strategy to bring about effective outcome
日本経済再生 効果的な成長戦略に練り直せ（1月14日付・読売社説）
◆ＴＰＰ交渉で国益の最大化を
Business has been steadily picking up on the tailwind of the economic policies of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
安倍政権の進める経済政策「アベノミクス」を追い風に、景気は明るさを増してきた。
The question now is how to maintain sustainable growth. It is essential to end the deflationary spiral that has continued for nearly 20 years.
これから問われるのは成長の持続力である。２０年近く続いた悪性デフレの病を、完治させることが肝心だ。
The government must accelerate the implementation of an effective growth strategy with a view to achieving self-sustaining growth led by the private sector.
政府は、民間主導の自律的な成長を目指し、実効性のある成長戦略を加速させねばならない。
The Nikkei Stock Average currently is hovering around 16,000 at the Tokyo Stock Exchange after soaring by about 60 percent in the past year. The stronger yen that plagued the national economy has weakened significantly and remains low in relation to other currencies.
東京市場の平均株価は、ここ１年で約６０％上昇し、１万６０００円前後で推移している。日本経済を苦しめた円高も大幅に修正され、円安傾向が続く。
Bold monetary easing and fiscal stimulus measures pushed by the Abe administration plus the business recovery of the United States have helped the Japanese economy. It is to ensure that the move toward improvement does not end up as a “false dawn.”
安倍政権が打ち出した大胆な金融緩和と財政出動に加え、米国の景気回復も好材料となった。大切なのは、改善の動きを「偽りの夜明け」に終わらせないことだ。
Tax hike biggest hurdle
◆カンフル剤は効いたが
The biggest hurdle to this goal is the consumption tax hike set for April.
最大のハードルは、４月の消費税率の引き上げである。
The tax burden on the nation’s households will increase by \6 trillion a year after the rate is raised from the current 5 percent to 8 percent. It is feared that consumption—which accounts for 60 percent of the gross domestic product—will cool off, causing a business slowdown.
消費税率が５％から８％に上がると、家計全体の税負担は年６兆円も増える。国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）の６割を占める消費が冷え込み、景気が失速する懸念がある。
Relying only on fiscal stimulus to prop up the economy will lead to the worsening of state finances. To attain economic revitalization and fiscal reconstruction together, it is indispensable to invigorate the economy through implementation of a radical growth strategy.
景気テコ入れ策として財政出動に頼るだけでは、財政悪化に拍車がかかる。経済再生と財政再建を同時に達成するには、大胆な成長戦略で民間経済を活性化させることが欠かせない。
In connection with the law on enhancement of industrial competitiveness enacted in December and other growth strategy-related bills, the government will shortly work out implementation plans that include timetables and designation of Cabinet ministers in charge of implementation. The government should steadily carry out measures and assess their effectiveness.
政府は昨年末に成立した産業競争力強化法をはじめ成長戦略の関連施策について、近く実行計画を策定し、実施時期や担当閣僚を明示する。各施策の着実な遂行と、効果の検証が求められよう。
It is problematic, however, that the growth strategy is lackluster.
だが問題は、成長戦略の中身が物足りないことだ。
Deregulation steps insufficient
◆規制緩和が物足りない
A deregulation plan to establish special national strategy zones under the slogan “to provide the world’s most favorable business environment” fails to do away with regulations that are as hard as bedrock in such fields as employment, medical treatment and agriculture.
「世界一ビジネスがしやすい環境を作る」とした国家戦略特区の規制緩和メニューは、雇用や医療、農業などの強固な「岩盤規制」を十分に突き崩せなかった。
Deregulation of working hours, which has been strongly requested by business circles, has been postponed. So has expansion of a mixed medical treatment system under which treatment covered and not covered by health insurance could be provided together.
経済界が強く求める労働時間の規制緩和や、自由診療と保険診療を併用する混合診療の大幅拡充なども見送られた。
In his New Year’s press conference, Abe revealed a plan to reexamine the growth strategy in the middle of this year. Half-baked revision would make no sense. To ensure the success of deregulation, the prime minister must lead the way in containing the resistance of government ministries and agencies as well as their related organizations trying to protect their vested interests.
首相は年頭の記者会見で、今年半ばに成長戦略を見直す方針を表明した。中途半端な改定では意味がない。既得権を守ろうとする各府省や関係団体の抵抗を、首相の指導力で封じ込め、規制緩和を前進させてもらいたい。
Another challenge for the growth strategy is lowering the effective corporate tax rate, which is higher than those in major countries in Europe and other parts of Asia.
欧州やアジアの主要国よりも高い法人税実効税率の引き下げも、成長戦略の課題である。
The government must aim at reinforcing the international competitiveness of Japanese companies by realizing the tax cut as soon as possible, while at the same time revitalizing the Japanese market by promoting the inflow of foreign capital.
早期に実現して、日本企業の競争力強化を図るとともに、外資の参入促進による日本市場の活性化を目指すべきだ。
The recovery of a cheap and stable power supply is the basis of economic growth. It is vital to steadily restart nuclear power reactors whose safety has been confirmed.
安価で安定した電力供給の回復は、経済成長の基盤といえる。安全性の確認できた原発を着実に再稼働することも不可欠である。
Yet we cannot expect much from the growth strategy as long as the companies, who are to play the leading role under the strategy, “have not danced though we have piped unto them.”
せっかくの成長戦略も、主役の企業が「笛吹けど踊らず」では成果は乏しい。
It is worrisome that many companies have not shaken free of their defensive stance. This is partly because their business performances were sluggish for a protracted period due to the deflationary trend and the strong yen.
デフレや円高で業績不振が長引いたこともあり、多くの企業が守りの姿勢から抜け出せていないことが気がかりである。
Japanese companies hold a total of at least \200 trillion in cash and money on deposit. This shows they have refrained from investing in plant and equipment and manpower in order to set aside cash reserves for emergencies.
日本企業は総額２００兆円を超える現金と預金を保有している。万一に備えて手元資金を残しておこうと、設備や人材への投資を控えてきた証しといえる。
Although they have bailed themselves out of the plight caused by the superstrong yen, Japanese manufacturers have been fiercely competing abroad with their rivals from emerging economies. This comes at a time when the domestic market is expected to shrink, due to the declining population.
超円高の苦境は脱したものの、製造業各社は海外市場で、新興国企業などと激しい競争を展開している。国内は、人口減少による市場の縮小が見込まれる。
Govt must reshape growth strategy to bring about effective outcome
日本経済再生 効果的な成長戦略に練り直せ（1月14日付・読売社説）
◆ＴＰＰ交渉で国益の最大化を
Business has been steadily picking up on the tailwind of the economic policies of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
安倍政権の進める経済政策「アベノミクス」を追い風に、景気は明るさを増してきた。
The question now is how to maintain sustainable growth. It is essential to end the deflationary spiral that has continued for nearly 20 years.
これから問われるのは成長の持続力である。２０年近く続いた悪性デフレの病を、完治させることが肝心だ。
The government must accelerate the implementation of an effective growth strategy with a view to achieving self-sustaining growth led by the private sector.
政府は、民間主導の自律的な成長を目指し、実効性のある成長戦略を加速させねばならない。
The Nikkei Stock Average currently is hovering around 16,000 at the Tokyo Stock Exchange after soaring by about 60 percent in the past year. The stronger yen that plagued the national economy has weakened significantly and remains low in relation to other currencies.
東京市場の平均株価は、ここ１年で約６０％上昇し、１万６０００円前後で推移している。日本経済を苦しめた円高も大幅に修正され、円安傾向が続く。
Bold monetary easing and fiscal stimulus measures pushed by the Abe administration plus the business recovery of the United States have helped the Japanese economy. It is to ensure that the move toward improvement does not end up as a “false dawn.”
安倍政権が打ち出した大胆な金融緩和と財政出動に加え、米国の景気回復も好材料となった。大切なのは、改善の動きを「偽りの夜明け」に終わらせないことだ。
Tax hike biggest hurdle
◆カンフル剤は効いたが
The biggest hurdle to this goal is the consumption tax hike set for April.
最大のハードルは、４月の消費税率の引き上げである。
The tax burden on the nation’s households will increase by \6 trillion a year after the rate is raised from the current 5 percent to 8 percent. It is feared that consumption—which accounts for 60 percent of the gross domestic product—will cool off, causing a business slowdown.
消費税率が５％から８％に上がると、家計全体の税負担は年６兆円も増える。国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）の６割を占める消費が冷え込み、景気が失速する懸念がある。
Relying only on fiscal stimulus to prop up the economy will lead to the worsening of state finances. To attain economic revitalization and fiscal reconstruction together, it is indispensable to invigorate the economy through implementation of a radical growth strategy.
景気テコ入れ策として財政出動に頼るだけでは、財政悪化に拍車がかかる。経済再生と財政再建を同時に達成するには、大胆な成長戦略で民間経済を活性化させることが欠かせない。
In connection with the law on enhancement of industrial competitiveness enacted in December and other growth strategy-related bills, the government will shortly work out implementation plans that include timetables and designation of Cabinet ministers in charge of implementation. The government should steadily carry out measures and assess their effectiveness.
政府は昨年末に成立した産業競争力強化法をはじめ成長戦略の関連施策について、近く実行計画を策定し、実施時期や担当閣僚を明示する。各施策の着実な遂行と、効果の検証が求められよう。
It is problematic, however, that the growth strategy is lackluster.
だが問題は、成長戦略の中身が物足りないことだ。
Deregulation steps insufficient
◆規制緩和が物足りない
A deregulation plan to establish special national strategy zones under the slogan “to provide the world’s most favorable business environment” fails to do away with regulations that are as hard as bedrock in such fields as employment, medical treatment and agriculture.
「世界一ビジネスがしやすい環境を作る」とした国家戦略特区の規制緩和メニューは、雇用や医療、農業などの強固な「岩盤規制」を十分に突き崩せなかった。
Deregulation of working hours, which has been strongly requested by business circles, has been postponed. So has expansion of a mixed medical treatment system under which treatment covered and not covered by health insurance could be provided together.
経済界が強く求める労働時間の規制緩和や、自由診療と保険診療を併用する混合診療の大幅拡充なども見送られた。
In his New Year’s press conference, Abe revealed a plan to reexamine the growth strategy in the middle of this year. Half-baked revision would make no sense. To ensure the success of deregulation, the prime minister must lead the way in containing the resistance of government ministries and agencies as well as their related organizations trying to protect their vested interests.
首相は年頭の記者会見で、今年半ばに成長戦略を見直す方針を表明した。中途半端な改定では意味がない。既得権を守ろうとする各府省や関係団体の抵抗を、首相の指導力で封じ込め、規制緩和を前進させてもらいたい。
Another challenge for the growth strategy is lowering the effective corporate tax rate, which is higher than those in major countries in Europe and other parts of Asia.
欧州やアジアの主要国よりも高い法人税実効税率の引き下げも、成長戦略の課題である。
The government must aim at reinforcing the international competitiveness of Japanese companies by realizing the tax cut as soon as possible, while at the same time revitalizing the Japanese market by promoting the inflow of foreign capital.
早期に実現して、日本企業の競争力強化を図るとともに、外資の参入促進による日本市場の活性化を目指すべきだ。
The recovery of a cheap and stable power supply is the basis of economic growth. It is vital to steadily restart nuclear power reactors whose safety has been confirmed.
安価で安定した電力供給の回復は、経済成長の基盤といえる。安全性の確認できた原発を着実に再稼働することも不可欠である。
Yet we cannot expect much from the growth strategy as long as the companies, who are to play the leading role under the strategy, “have not danced though we have piped unto them.”
せっかくの成長戦略も、主役の企業が「笛吹けど踊らず」では成果は乏しい。
It is worrisome that many companies have not shaken free of their defensive stance. This is partly because their business performances were sluggish for a protracted period due to the deflationary trend and the strong yen.
デフレや円高で業績不振が長引いたこともあり、多くの企業が守りの姿勢から抜け出せていないことが気がかりである。
Japanese companies hold a total of at least \200 trillion in cash and money on deposit. This shows they have refrained from investing in plant and equipment and manpower in order to set aside cash reserves for emergencies.
日本企業は総額２００兆円を超える現金と預金を保有している。万一に備えて手元資金を残しておこうと、設備や人材への投資を控えてきた証しといえる。
Although they have bailed themselves out of the plight caused by the superstrong yen, Japanese manufacturers have been fiercely competing abroad with their rivals from emerging economies. This comes at a time when the domestic market is expected to shrink, due to the declining population.
超円高の苦境は脱したものの、製造業各社は海外市場で、新興国企業などと激しい競争を展開している。国内は、人口減少による市場の縮小が見込まれる。
2014年01月15日
成人の日 堅実さと柔軟な発想求めたい
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 14, 2014
New adults should combine realism with flexibility and entrepreneurship
成人の日 堅実さと柔軟な発想求めたい（1月13日付・読売社説）
Today is Coming-of-Age Day. We would like to celebrate the birth of 1.21 million new adults in Japan.
きょうは成人の日。１２１万人の新成人の門出を祝いたい。
We hope they will step forward strongly with keen awareness as adults.
大人としての自覚を胸に刻み、力強い一歩を踏み出してほしい。
They were born in 1993, when the Liberal Democratic Party-led government, which had held power since the merger of conservative parties in 1955, was replaced with a coalition government of non-LDP parties. Crown Prince and Princess Masako also married that year.
新成人が生まれた１９９３年には、５５年の保守合同以来続いた自民党政権に代わって、非自民の連立政権が誕生した。皇太子さまと雅子さまのご成婚もあった。
The years in which these young people grew up almost overlap the “two lost decades” when the Japanese economy faltered after the collapse of the asset-inflated bubble economy. There are concerns about a decline in their academic abilities because they received “cram-free education” from primary school to high school.
この若者たちが育った時期は、バブル経済が崩壊して、日本経済が低迷を続けた「失われた２０年」とほぼ重なる。小学校から高校までは、いわゆる「ゆとり教育」を受け、学力低下の懸念も指摘されてきた。
They are also a generation that mastered the skills needed in the age of information technology when they were still small, as the Internet and mobile phones have been available as long as they can remember.
物心がついた頃にはネットや携帯電話が既に登場しており、情報化時代のスキルを子供のうちから身に着けた世代でもある。
Seiko Holdings Corp., which has conducted questionnaire surveys among new adults every year, says this year’s new adults tend to pursue a down-to-earth lifestyle.
セイコーホールディングス社は毎年、新成人に対してアンケート調査を行っているが、それによると、今年の新成人は「堅実志向型」なのだという。
Asked what they place importance on, the largest number replied money. The largest number also said they want to spend more time studying. Of course, it is important to be down-to-earth like them, but we also hope they will have flexible mindsets and embrace challenges.
大切にしたいものとして「お金」、増やしたい時間として「勉強」を挙げた人が最も多かった。そうした堅実さはもちろん大切だが、新成人には、柔軟な発想とチャレンジ精神も求めたい。
Young entrepreneurs needed
Aya Ozeki, now 21, used \300,000 that she saved to start a business to establish a fashion company in Tokyo when she was still in her second year of high school.
例えば、現在２１歳の大関綾さんは、高校２年生の時に、起業のために貯(た)めていた３０万円を資本金として、東京都内にファッションの会社を設立した。
“I wanted to start a business when I could still capitalize on my youthful sensitivities,” she said.
「若い時の感性を生かせるうちに、起業したいと考えた」と話す。
Ozeki had a huge hit with her invention of a women’s necktie for businesswomen working actively in society, which nobody had conceived. She also developed a unique leather tie for men that is very easy to put on.
社会で活躍するビジネスウーマンのために、誰もが思いつかなかった女性用のネクタイを考案し、大ヒットとなった。男性ネクタイでも、装着しやすいユニークな革製の商品を開発した。
The government is developing a system to help young people start companies through subsidies and other means. We hope many young entrepreneurs like Ozeki will emerge from among the new adults.
政府も、補助金などによって、若者の起業を支援する体制を整えつつある。大関さんのような若い起業家が、新成人の中からも次々と出てくることを期待したい。
Japanese companies are facing fiercer-than-ever competition with both domestic and foreign rivals. If they are company employees, the new adults should clearly express their own ideas with the strong spirit to lead their companies.
日本の企業は、国内だけでなく海外からも、これまで以上の激しい競争にさらされている。会社員なら、会社を引っ張る気概を持って、自分自身の考えをはっきりと主張していくことが重要だ。
Whether they are members of the working world or still students, we hope they will set a rock-steady goal and improve themselves toward achieving it.
社会人であれ、学生であれ、しっかりと目標を立て、それに向かって自らを磨いてほしい。
By the time the new adults are 50, Japan is predicted to have transformed into a “piggyback” type of society, which means one working person will support one elderly person in a country with more elderly people and fewer children.
新成人が５０歳になる頃には、少子高齢化が一層進んで、現役世代１人の負担で高齢者１人の暮らしをまかなう「肩車型」の社会が到来するという。
However, it is the power of young people that will overcome the raging waves of the times, build a wealthy Japan and sustain the country’s future.
時代の荒波を乗り越えて、豊かな日本を築き、未来を支えていくのは、若い力である。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 13, 2014)
（2014年1月13日01時31分 読売新聞）
New adults should combine realism with flexibility and entrepreneurship
成人の日 堅実さと柔軟な発想求めたい（1月13日付・読売社説）
Today is Coming-of-Age Day. We would like to celebrate the birth of 1.21 million new adults in Japan.
きょうは成人の日。１２１万人の新成人の門出を祝いたい。
We hope they will step forward strongly with keen awareness as adults.
大人としての自覚を胸に刻み、力強い一歩を踏み出してほしい。
They were born in 1993, when the Liberal Democratic Party-led government, which had held power since the merger of conservative parties in 1955, was replaced with a coalition government of non-LDP parties. Crown Prince and Princess Masako also married that year.
新成人が生まれた１９９３年には、５５年の保守合同以来続いた自民党政権に代わって、非自民の連立政権が誕生した。皇太子さまと雅子さまのご成婚もあった。
The years in which these young people grew up almost overlap the “two lost decades” when the Japanese economy faltered after the collapse of the asset-inflated bubble economy. There are concerns about a decline in their academic abilities because they received “cram-free education” from primary school to high school.
この若者たちが育った時期は、バブル経済が崩壊して、日本経済が低迷を続けた「失われた２０年」とほぼ重なる。小学校から高校までは、いわゆる「ゆとり教育」を受け、学力低下の懸念も指摘されてきた。
They are also a generation that mastered the skills needed in the age of information technology when they were still small, as the Internet and mobile phones have been available as long as they can remember.
物心がついた頃にはネットや携帯電話が既に登場しており、情報化時代のスキルを子供のうちから身に着けた世代でもある。
Seiko Holdings Corp., which has conducted questionnaire surveys among new adults every year, says this year’s new adults tend to pursue a down-to-earth lifestyle.
セイコーホールディングス社は毎年、新成人に対してアンケート調査を行っているが、それによると、今年の新成人は「堅実志向型」なのだという。
Asked what they place importance on, the largest number replied money. The largest number also said they want to spend more time studying. Of course, it is important to be down-to-earth like them, but we also hope they will have flexible mindsets and embrace challenges.
大切にしたいものとして「お金」、増やしたい時間として「勉強」を挙げた人が最も多かった。そうした堅実さはもちろん大切だが、新成人には、柔軟な発想とチャレンジ精神も求めたい。
Young entrepreneurs needed
Aya Ozeki, now 21, used \300,000 that she saved to start a business to establish a fashion company in Tokyo when she was still in her second year of high school.
例えば、現在２１歳の大関綾さんは、高校２年生の時に、起業のために貯(た)めていた３０万円を資本金として、東京都内にファッションの会社を設立した。
“I wanted to start a business when I could still capitalize on my youthful sensitivities,” she said.
「若い時の感性を生かせるうちに、起業したいと考えた」と話す。
Ozeki had a huge hit with her invention of a women’s necktie for businesswomen working actively in society, which nobody had conceived. She also developed a unique leather tie for men that is very easy to put on.
社会で活躍するビジネスウーマンのために、誰もが思いつかなかった女性用のネクタイを考案し、大ヒットとなった。男性ネクタイでも、装着しやすいユニークな革製の商品を開発した。
The government is developing a system to help young people start companies through subsidies and other means. We hope many young entrepreneurs like Ozeki will emerge from among the new adults.
政府も、補助金などによって、若者の起業を支援する体制を整えつつある。大関さんのような若い起業家が、新成人の中からも次々と出てくることを期待したい。
Japanese companies are facing fiercer-than-ever competition with both domestic and foreign rivals. If they are company employees, the new adults should clearly express their own ideas with the strong spirit to lead their companies.
日本の企業は、国内だけでなく海外からも、これまで以上の激しい競争にさらされている。会社員なら、会社を引っ張る気概を持って、自分自身の考えをはっきりと主張していくことが重要だ。
Whether they are members of the working world or still students, we hope they will set a rock-steady goal and improve themselves toward achieving it.
社会人であれ、学生であれ、しっかりと目標を立て、それに向かって自らを磨いてほしい。
By the time the new adults are 50, Japan is predicted to have transformed into a “piggyback” type of society, which means one working person will support one elderly person in a country with more elderly people and fewer children.
新成人が５０歳になる頃には、少子高齢化が一層進んで、現役世代１人の負担で高齢者１人の暮らしをまかなう「肩車型」の社会が到来するという。
However, it is the power of young people that will overcome the raging waves of the times, build a wealthy Japan and sustain the country’s future.
時代の荒波を乗り越えて、豊かな日本を築き、未来を支えていくのは、若い力である。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 13, 2014)
（2014年1月13日01時31分 読売新聞）
2014年01月14日
道徳の教科化 規範意識の涵養につながるか
The Yomiuri Shimbun January 12, 2014
Moral education classes could enhance social norms of kids
道徳の教科化 規範意識の涵養につながるか（1月12日付・読売社説）
It is important to cultivate from childhood the awareness to abide by the rules of society and show consideration to others. Therefore, it is crucial to improve moral education.
社会のルールを守る規範意識を涵養(かんよう)し、他人を思いやる気持ちを培うことは大切だ。子供たちに対する道徳教育の充実が欠かせない。
A report, compiled by an experts’ panel on moral education set up by the Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Ministry, calls for moral education, which is not a regular subject at primary and middle school levels, to be treated as a “special subject” to improve the teaching of such classes.
文部科学省の有識者会議が、正規の教科ではない小中学校の「道徳の時間」を「特別の教科」にして、授業のレベルアップを求める報告書をまとめた。
The experts’ panel examined the issue after the Education Rebuilding Implementation Council, which works directly under the prime minister, proposed in February that moral education should be made a regular subject as part of measures to prevent bullying at schools.
政府の教育再生実行会議が昨年２月にいじめ防止対策の一つとして教科化を提言し、それを踏まえて検討が重ねられてきた。
It is reasonable that the government aims to call on schools to realize how important moral education is by giving it the status of a regular subject, thus improving teaching methods.
教科としてきちんと位置付けることで、教育現場に道徳の重要性を再認識させ、指導の改善を図ろうとする方向性は妥当である。
Less value has been attached to moral education since the end of World War II in reaction to the moral education in prewar years that was propagated by nationalistic elements.
戦後の道徳教育は、国家主義的色合いが濃かったとされる戦前の「修身」へのアレルギーから、必要以上に軽視されがちだった。
Currently, one moral education class is offered per week. However, it is up to teachers to decide how to conduct such classes because there is no official textbook. There are differences among schools and teachers in regard to moral education classes.
現在、道徳の時間が週１コマ設けられているものの、教科書はなく、教え方は現場任せというのが実情だ。学校や教師によって、取り組み状況に差も見られる。
Some people have pointed out that moral education has lost substance, as some schools use slots designed for moral education to hold supplementary classes in other subjects.
他の教科の補習などに振り替えられているケースもあり、かねて形骸化が指摘されていた。
However, many problems must be worked out before moral education can be made a regular subject.
ただ、教科化を実現するにあたっては、課題が多い。
For instance, what kind of teaching materials should be used for moral education classes? The panel’s report called for the introduction of textbooks approved by the official screening system to provide teaching materials for such classes.
例えば、どのような教材を用いるかだ。報告書は、教材を安定的に供給する観点から、検定教科書の導入を提案した。
Forcing values on children
Strong criticism has been voiced about making moral education a regular subject, with some people saying it could lead to the government forcing certain values on children. The panel apparently aimed to dispel these concerns by proposing that private-sector companies should compile textbooks for moral education.
道徳の教科化に対しては、国による特定の価値観の押しつけにつながるとの批判が根強くある。民間の教科書会社に製作を委ねることにより、こうした懸念を払拭する目的もあるのだろう。
Innovative efforts by publishers on creating textbooks for moral education should be respected. However, to what extent should their products be approved if they are based on biased values or peculiar ideas?
だが、教科書会社の創意工夫を尊重するにしても、仮に、偏った価値観や特定の主義主張に基づく教科書が作られた場合、どこまで認めていくのか。
When working out standards for screening textbooks for moral education, education authorities should have in-depth discussions by coming up with various scenarios.
今後、具体的な検定基準を策定する際には、様々なケースを想定し、幅広い議論が求められる。
Moral education classes are supposed to be handled by homeroom teachers. This means that teacher-training programs at the university level and those for teachers offered by boards of education also should be reviewed. Teachers should be given access to appropriate methods for these classes.
道徳の授業は、学級担任の教師が担当することになる。それなら大学の教員養成課程や教育委員会の研修を見直す必要もあろう。教師が適切な指導方法を習得できるようにすべきだ。
Providing academic assessments for children’s achievements in moral education classes is difficult, as they focus on students’ psychological development.
道徳は子供の内面にかかわる分野だけに、成績評価が難しい。
It is understandable that the report proposed that children’s performances in moral education classes should be evaluated in written form, rather than numerical evaluations like Japanese, mathematics and other subjects.
報告書が、国語や算数・数学など通常の教科のような数値評価ではなく、学習の様子を記述式で評価する方法を検討するよう促したのはうなずける。
Education authorities are encouraged to come up with an evaluation method under which teachers can make detailed records on each student’s efforts and development during moral education classes, rather than deciding who performs better than others.
優劣をつけるのではなく、子供一人ひとりの努力や成長の足跡を丁寧に記録する。そんな評価の在り方を工夫したい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 12, 2014)
（2014年1月12日01時15分 読売新聞）
Moral education classes could enhance social norms of kids
道徳の教科化 規範意識の涵養につながるか（1月12日付・読売社説）
It is important to cultivate from childhood the awareness to abide by the rules of society and show consideration to others. Therefore, it is crucial to improve moral education.
社会のルールを守る規範意識を涵養(かんよう)し、他人を思いやる気持ちを培うことは大切だ。子供たちに対する道徳教育の充実が欠かせない。
A report, compiled by an experts’ panel on moral education set up by the Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Ministry, calls for moral education, which is not a regular subject at primary and middle school levels, to be treated as a “special subject” to improve the teaching of such classes.
文部科学省の有識者会議が、正規の教科ではない小中学校の「道徳の時間」を「特別の教科」にして、授業のレベルアップを求める報告書をまとめた。
The experts’ panel examined the issue after the Education Rebuilding Implementation Council, which works directly under the prime minister, proposed in February that moral education should be made a regular subject as part of measures to prevent bullying at schools.
政府の教育再生実行会議が昨年２月にいじめ防止対策の一つとして教科化を提言し、それを踏まえて検討が重ねられてきた。
It is reasonable that the government aims to call on schools to realize how important moral education is by giving it the status of a regular subject, thus improving teaching methods.
教科としてきちんと位置付けることで、教育現場に道徳の重要性を再認識させ、指導の改善を図ろうとする方向性は妥当である。
Less value has been attached to moral education since the end of World War II in reaction to the moral education in prewar years that was propagated by nationalistic elements.
戦後の道徳教育は、国家主義的色合いが濃かったとされる戦前の「修身」へのアレルギーから、必要以上に軽視されがちだった。
Currently, one moral education class is offered per week. However, it is up to teachers to decide how to conduct such classes because there is no official textbook. There are differences among schools and teachers in regard to moral education classes.
現在、道徳の時間が週１コマ設けられているものの、教科書はなく、教え方は現場任せというのが実情だ。学校や教師によって、取り組み状況に差も見られる。
Some people have pointed out that moral education has lost substance, as some schools use slots designed for moral education to hold supplementary classes in other subjects.
他の教科の補習などに振り替えられているケースもあり、かねて形骸化が指摘されていた。
However, many problems must be worked out before moral education can be made a regular subject.
ただ、教科化を実現するにあたっては、課題が多い。
For instance, what kind of teaching materials should be used for moral education classes? The panel’s report called for the introduction of textbooks approved by the official screening system to provide teaching materials for such classes.
例えば、どのような教材を用いるかだ。報告書は、教材を安定的に供給する観点から、検定教科書の導入を提案した。
Forcing values on children
Strong criticism has been voiced about making moral education a regular subject, with some people saying it could lead to the government forcing certain values on children. The panel apparently aimed to dispel these concerns by proposing that private-sector companies should compile textbooks for moral education.
道徳の教科化に対しては、国による特定の価値観の押しつけにつながるとの批判が根強くある。民間の教科書会社に製作を委ねることにより、こうした懸念を払拭する目的もあるのだろう。
Innovative efforts by publishers on creating textbooks for moral education should be respected. However, to what extent should their products be approved if they are based on biased values or peculiar ideas?
だが、教科書会社の創意工夫を尊重するにしても、仮に、偏った価値観や特定の主義主張に基づく教科書が作られた場合、どこまで認めていくのか。
When working out standards for screening textbooks for moral education, education authorities should have in-depth discussions by coming up with various scenarios.
今後、具体的な検定基準を策定する際には、様々なケースを想定し、幅広い議論が求められる。
Moral education classes are supposed to be handled by homeroom teachers. This means that teacher-training programs at the university level and those for teachers offered by boards of education also should be reviewed. Teachers should be given access to appropriate methods for these classes.
道徳の授業は、学級担任の教師が担当することになる。それなら大学の教員養成課程や教育委員会の研修を見直す必要もあろう。教師が適切な指導方法を習得できるようにすべきだ。
Providing academic assessments for children’s achievements in moral education classes is difficult, as they focus on students’ psychological development.
道徳は子供の内面にかかわる分野だけに、成績評価が難しい。
It is understandable that the report proposed that children’s performances in moral education classes should be evaluated in written form, rather than numerical evaluations like Japanese, mathematics and other subjects.
報告書が、国語や算数・数学など通常の教科のような数値評価ではなく、学習の様子を記述式で評価する方法を検討するよう促したのはうなずける。
Education authorities are encouraged to come up with an evaluation method under which teachers can make detailed records on each student’s efforts and development during moral education classes, rather than deciding who performs better than others.
優劣をつけるのではなく、子供一人ひとりの努力や成長の足跡を丁寧に記録する。そんな評価の在り方を工夫したい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 12, 2014)
（2014年1月12日01時15分 読売新聞）