Soshi

The political storm which has been brewing for some time in the Japanese House of Representatives broke with torrential violence and forced the Government to seek hasty shelter.

Before the Diet (Parliament) adjourned for the Prince Regent's marriage (TIME, Feb. 4), Premier Kiyoura's Cabinet had excited violent criticism because it was alleged to have been formed under the aegis of the Genro or Elder Statesmen, and was, therefore, a Cabinet of the Peers.

The day before the Diet reassembled a train carrying some Opposition leaders was wrecked, but no life was lost. This caused the Opposition Parties to employ soshi ("political bullies") to attempt to force the homes of the Elder Statesmen.

When the House met again the Opposition interpellated the Government on the attempted train wreck and charged it with complicity. The Premier refused to make a statement. The air then became thick with imprecations, shaking fists and water bottles. The Speaker was forced to adjourn the session. During the recess the Premier induced the Prince Regent to dissolve the Diet and so forestalled a vote of no confidence in the Government. Elections are to be held, but, meanwhile, the dissolution has created a "tense political atmosphere."