It is a bit ridiculous to blame the rice scandal on former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. I live in Australia and we have very little regulation of our food supply. But we don't have these kinds of food scandals, thankfully. Anyone in my country who is selfish and stupid enough to sell food to people that is not fit for human consumption will suffer both criminal and civil prosecution.
If their food caused people to die, then they might go to jail, and their business would certainly suffer greatly -- probably to the point of being forced to close. I think it is silly to blame deregulation of the rice industry. Why can countries like Australia get it right and not Japan?
rupert enwright
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.