Overview

• Yomiuri Shimbun published a verification on August 30 concluding its August 27 front-page misidentification of a Tokyo prosecutors’ search target stemmed from a reporter’s assumptions, downplayed contrary information and failed internal checks.
• The paper announced September 5 disciplinary measures, including two months of 30% pay or remuneration returns by senior editors, removal of the social affairs chief, a reprimand for the day’s desk, and seven-day suspensions for a desk, the judicial club chief and the reporter, while pledging steps to help restore MP Taku Ikeshita’s reputation and correct online misinformation.
• The Health Ministry’s expert committee held a second meeting on August 29 to hear welfare plaintiffs seeking full reimbursement of 2013–15 benefit cuts and an apology, and the nine-member panel is examining eligibility and payment amounts with a possible conclusion by year-end.
• In Narita, a care medical facility’s staff were recorded telling a resident to “die,” with ex-employees alleging possible violence, and the operator acknowledged abusive behavior yet did not notify the municipality as required by law; the city is investigating.
• Reporting also showed Suzuka City asked welfare applicants to empty wallets to check coins despite no such national requirement, which specialists criticized as degrading to applicants’ dignity.