POLITICS IN JAPAN

Press, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22112, 7 June 1937, Page 9

POLITICS IN JAPAN

KONOYE GOVERNMENT| HAILED TRUCE WITH ARMY NOW EXPECTED RENEWED EFFORTS LIKELY FOR SOUTHWARD EXPANSION (united press association—copyright.) (Received June 6, 10 p.m.) TOKYO, June 5. The advent of the Konoye Government is hailed with relief throughout the nation as promising general stabilisation of national affairs. It is especially welcome because it is considered that it will make possible, a truce between the army and the political parties. The re-entry of Mr Hirota is regarded as one of the strongest pillars of the new Government. The only factor of doubt is the re-entry of Mr Eiichi Baba (Minister for Finance in Mr Hirota's last Cabinet), whose forceful advocacy of a form of controlled economy is considered akin to a state of socialism. Mr Okinobu Kaya is regarded as an able and independent Minister for Finance in co-operation with Mr Shingi Yoshino, an experienced Minister for Commerce and Industry. The appointment of Mr Kozui Otani as Minister for Overseas Affairs is likely to redouble the vigour of the policy of southward expansion. Mr Otani, years ago, was a pioneer proponent of southward expansion, particularly for a solution of the population problem. Mr Hirota, it is reported, believes that the danger of a war between Russia and Japan has been'halved and that an early settlement is possible. Japan, he says, will also seek a settlement with China, but will resist outside interference. Prince Koncye., who is a newcomer to the Japanese Cabinet, is 46 years of age and is a man of considerable ability and accomplishments. He is regarded as the lieutenant 'and pre sumably the successor) of Prince Saionii. the veteran statesman, to whom he is related. Prince Konoye has travelled extensively in the United States and Europe. He was sent in an official mission to the United States in 1934. After the military revolt in February 1936, which led to the resignation of the Okada- Cabinet. Prince Konoye was commanded to form a Ministry. but declined on the ground of illhealth. He is the head of one of the five families in Japan which claim divine descent.