Protectionist Trade Measures

Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone’s recent visit was reminiscent of the Japanese emissaries professing their peaceful intentions just prior to the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor, Dec. 7, 1941. The war mongers of Japan plotted their attack on the United States to fulfill their dreams of world domination. Their failure is a testimony to American sacrifice, determination and effective national leadership.

What the Japanese could not accomplish 46 years ago militarily, they are succeeding economically. Their false promises, delaying tactics, unfair competition and devious trade practices have won them economic world domination.

Along the way, the Japanese have “captured” billions of dollars in prime U.S. real estate, taken over consumer markets, own and control banking and financial services, and most recently have become a major player on Wall Street. When will America wake up to the Japanese infiltration in our economic life on such a major scale?

Before it’s too late, we must change the rules of the game. It is time President Reagan stopped his vendetta against Nicaragua, posing the Russian threat, and show his pugnacity against the bigger “enemy,” Japan.

For starters, we should set up a special “currency” to pay for Japanese imports. Such money could only be used by them to purchase American exports--not real estate, not banks, etc. Then, we must stop spending billions of American taxpayers’ dollars for a U.S. military presence in Japan to “protect” them. Japan could afford to use its current annual trade surplus of American dollars--$100 billion--for its own security.

Finally, President Reagan must visit Pearl Harbor, especially the resting place of the battleship Arizona, for a refresher course on the Japanese. Mr. President, you owe more allegiance to the entombed men and officers of the Arizona than to your buddy, “Sone.” Have you forgotten Pearl Harbor?

JOSEPH L. WEISS

Los Angeles