Japanese Diet To Hold Special Session

Northern Advocate, 25 October 1941, Page 6

Japanese Diet To Hold Special Session

(Rec. 1 p.m.) LONDON. Oct. 24 The cabinet has decided to request the Emperor to convoke a special fiveday session of the Diet, commencing on November 15. states a Tokio message. The Information Board said the purpose was “to obtain approval for additional budget plans and legislative bills to meet the current situation, also to press the firm determination of the present cabinet in regard to the prosecution of national policies.” Observers are of the opinion that the primary purpose is to approve large military appropriations.

Economic Situation Grave The United Stales Department of Commerce at Washington reports that Japan’s economic situation is grave, primarily as a result of the cessation of trade with Britain and American and Netherlands countries, which previously accounted for 75 per cent of Japan’s total foreign business. The report adds that Japan is now dependent on the resources of Hie yen bloc area, whose prospects of selfsufficiency are not bright. Japan is faced with almost complete dislocation of cotton exports, an uncertain future in the silk industry, and, in addition, a severe shortage of strategic materials.