Japan Press Weekly

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2009 October 7 - 13 TOP3 [AGRICULTURE]

JCP chair attends JA assembly for the first time

Guest lawmakers at the JA-Zenchu’s 25th national assembly, held on October 8 in Tokyo, were totally different from the past. The JA traditionally invited to its assembly the prime minister and other senior officials of the government and ruling parties, most of whom were Liberal Democratic Party members.

JCP Chair Shii Kazuo in his speech introduced the JCP’s proposal that 18,000 yen per bale of rice be guaranteed, which was applauded by the 2,500 participants. Even more applause was given when he said that the JCP will keep opposing import liberalization of agricultural products under a free trade agreement (FTA) with the U.S. and an economic partnership agreement (EPA) with Australia.

People’s New Party Secretary General Jimi Shojiro said in his speech, “No applause was given for the LDP but only for the JCP. The times have changed.”

Prime Minister Hatoyama Yukio’s message was read by Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Yorihisa, and Vice Agriculture Minister Gunji Akira gave an address. Other guest speakers were representatives of the JCP, the LDP, the Komei Party, the Social Democratic Party, the People’s New Party, and the Your Party.
- Akahata, October 9, 2009