894.011/11–2945: Telegram
The Acting Political Adviser in Japan (Atcheson) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 30—2:08 p.m.]
171. According to Japanese press, Cabinet Constitutional Revision Committee arrived at “general conclusion” November 24 and plans to complete draft by middle of January for submission to new Diet.
While it is stated that Committee’s intention is to “decrease imperial prerogatives and strengthen democratic features by guaranteeing popular rights, as well as strengthening power of Diet,” there is to be no change in the basic laws of the Japanese State, comprised in the first four articles which specify the perpetuation of the Empire system, the sovereignty and inviolability of the Empire and the rule of succession.
[Page 871]Article 9, providing for imperial ordinances without Diet approval, is to be abolished, as well as article 11 giving the Emperor supreme command of the Army and Navy, and article 12 vesting the Emperor with power to determine the organization of the Army and Navy.
Article 13 (“The Emperor declares war, makes peace and concludes treaties”) is to be revised to permit Diet participation. Eights and duties of subjects “may be stipulated more comprehensively.”
Article 31 under which rights of subjects may be suspended may be dropped from the Constitution.
Membership of Upper House will be decreased and provision made for approval by Lower House of changes in House of Peers law.
Article 71 will be revised so that Cabinet will resign on failure of budget to pass.
Privy Council will undergo drastic changes and changes will be sought in regard to the judiciary in order to “guarantee fully the people’s rights.”