Page:A handbook of modern Japan (IA handbookofmodern01clem).pdf/187

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LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT
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they do not interrupt the speech of a member; but they have no vote.

When a member wishes to address the assembly, he rises, calls out "Gichō" (Chairman), and gives the number of his seat. When the chairman has recognized him by repeating that number, he "has the floor."[1]

If other matters, besides those included in the "original bill(s)" of the Governor, seem to at least two members to warrant discussion, they present these matters in the form of petitions; and if the assembly grants permission, these petitions may be discussed, like bills.

No bill becomes a law until it has been signed by the Governor. If the latter does not agree with a bill, he may appeal to the Department of Home Affairs, where it will be finally decided.

If we now endeavor to measure the extent and limitations of the power of a Japanese prefectural assembly, we may say that in theory a Kenkwai or a Fukwai is by no means entirely independent of the central government, nor does it possess absolute control of the matters of its own Ken or Fu. It will be noticed that in all cases the final ratification or decision rests with the Governor or the Department of Home Affairs. The latter also has the power in its own hands of suspending an assembly at its discretion. It would seem, then, that theoretically a

  1. ↑ The sessions are generally very orderly; no smoking or drinking is allowed in the assembly-room.
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