The new "Fundamental Law" has been developed as a general concept, and
this concept
must be realized through a number of new laws dealing with different
tasks. From an
administrative viewpoint, it is important for the Ministry of Agriculture,
Forestry and Fisheries
to work closely together with other governmental agencies in order to
develop coordinated
policies of agriculture and land management as well as relevant public
educational programs,
and appropriate budgetary process. Agricultural practitioners and
organizations should
reciprocate in this effort as well.
One practical issue is how to improve agricultural productivity. Rice
is the most
productive crop per acre, but its production level has been regulated for
last thirty years. An
expansion in rice consumption would encourage a production increase as well
as improve the
food self-sufficiency rate. But this would require a broad public consensus
among the people.
An overly large production increase would invite another round of
production regulation by the
government or drive farmers to leave additional rice fields fallow, which
would be a most
undesirable situation.
Another effort should be an overall review of our dietary practices.
What should be the
most desirable diet for us in Japan? I would like to solicit answers
through a national discussion
on this issue. We need to do our best to impress upon the public the
crucial nature of this issue.
Promotion of the restoration of the traditional Japanese diet by taking
full advantage of rice
production and promoting its consumption is one way to approach this issue.
A third approach would be educational. We should talk, work and eat
together with
youngsters and through this process they could learn about food, diet,
traditions and the
significance of agriculture. This requires intense preparation and serious
effort.
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