Modish minister

From the beginning of next month, all government officials will be urged to dress casually in a bid to save energy. Cool Biz as it’s been dubbed, aims to save electricity by changing the ministry buildings air conditioning settings from a cool and comfortable 25-degrees, to a slightly more stuffy 28. With the shedding of ties and jackets intended to help bureaucrats and ministers stay comfortable in the warmer climate.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Hiroyuki Hosada is a keen supporter of the summer saving campaign, and told reporters that, “The important thing is to save energy by raising the temperature of air conditioning.” But not everyone is so enthusiastic. Veteran politician Toranosuke Katayama voiced concerns that, “It would be rather hot at 28-degrees.” Also adding, “There could be problems of dignity.”

And right on cue, Hosada-san stepped out in this casual Okinawan top yesterday. Shirt and tie nestling stylishly underneath.

(Apologies for the low quality picture. I couldn’t find an online image, and had to scan the one posted from a newspaper. Thankfully though Hosada’s acute sense of fashion still shines through.)