YOSHIDA LIKELY TO BE JAP. PREMIER

Auckland Star, Volume LXXVI, Issue 237, 6 October 1945, Page 5

YOSHIDA LIKELY TO BE JAP. PREMIER

Prince Higashi-Kuni Resigns

N.Z. P. A.—Copyright—Rec. 11 a.m.

TOKYO, Oct. 5.

Japan's Foreign Minister, Mr. Shigeru Yoshida, may be the new Prime Minister in succession to Prince Higashi-Kuni, who has resigned, according to Japanese newspapermen. Mr. Yoshida told interviewers that he had not been chosen, but newspapermen .say he is always foxy and would not admit the appointment beforehand anyway. Two visits made by Mr. Yoshida to the Imperial Palace and two calls to General Mac Arthur's headquarters indicated his selection and approval. The retiring Vice-Premier, Prince Fumimaro Konoye, visited Mr. Yoshida last night. This indicates that Prince Konoye is out of the running, because the new Premier receives calls. Prince Higashi-Kuni told the Associated Press correspondent that the Emperor Hirohito, after deciding on the new Cabinet, will present the names for General Mac Arthur's approval, hence a public announcement of the new Cabinet may be delayed for a couple of days. This policy did not result from an agreement with General Mac Arthur, but was adopted by the Emperor, who was anxious to ensure the full co-operation of the Americans. Prince Higashi-Kuni added that the, Emperor, when accepting the resignations, said: "That is good. I accept." The Emperor presumably meant that a stronger Cabinet, more acceptable to the Americans, could be formed. Prince Higashi-Kuni added: "I asked the Emperor to relieve me of all responsibilities. I intend to retire. I do not know who will be the next Premier, but it will be a man who knows the Americans and is willing to carry out their policies." Prince Higashi-Kuni attributed his resignation to the fact that the first phase of the occupation and demobilisation had concluded.