JAPAN AND THE WEST.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 53, Issue 149, 5 April 1933, Page 2

JAPAN AND THE WEST.

POLICY OF ISOLATION, SIGNS OF CHANGE OF MIND. In the Japanese newspapers (says the Yokohama correspondent of the "Observer") there has been increasing evidence of an imminent change of mind in regard to the official policy of diplomatic isolation from Western countries. One of the more important metropolitan journals, the "Hochi Shimbun," says: "The fact is we are in no position to fight the whole world; nor would there be anything to gain from so reckless an adventure. What we should most earnestly desire is xhe extrication of Japan from her present predicament of practical isolation, and her restoration, at the earliest possible date, to normal relationship with the Powers in general." The editor of "Hochi Shimbun" then goes on to advise that Japan should come to an understanding with other nations as to her Continental policy as soon as possible. He thinks, however, that this will not be possible until the country returns to the constitutional government laid down in the rescript of the great Emperor Meiji. There is very general opinion that the present political situation, which threatens a form of Fascism, is likely to encourage Western nations in a policy against Japan. The "Tokio Asahi" is scarcely less critical, though in much more guarded terms, especially in regard to the present policy toward Russia. Not so long ago no Japanese journal would have dared to speak out thus boldly. The conviction seems general that the present Cabinet cannot much longer resist the pressure of the opposing political parties. The new political party founded by Mr Adachi, who overthrew the Wakatsuki Cabinet, is particularly bitter against the present Cabinet. While the Seiyukai majority has the Cabinet at its mercy, not only is there profound dissatisfaction with the Cabinet's financial policy, but no less with its defiance of the Constitution, which implies a Government elected by the voters. The Cabinet's inflexible attitude toward the League of Nations and the advice of Japan's old friends with whom she has co-operated so harmoniously ever since her entrance to the comity of nations, is creating grave misgiving in the best minds. Further complaint is raised against the Government's failure to enter into a nonaggression pact with the Soviet before China resumed diplomatic relations with Moscow. Interesting discussions have been taking place in Tokio between the Foreign Minister and the Soviet envoy. There is a growing apprehension that the Government could not possibly expect to meet the deficit caused by the unprecedented Budget unless it contemplates confiscation of private capital, and the present discussion of a policy looking toward enforcement of the sale of foreign currency bonds to the Bank of Japan tends to confirm the apprehension. i