Coalition clears way for new PM

TOKYO - Japan's ruling coalition agreed on a policy platform yesterday, clearing the way for the Trade Minister, Mr Ryutaro Hashimoto, to become prime minister in the next few days. The talks among Mr Hashimoto's Liberal Democrats, the Socialists led by the outgoing prime minister, Mr Tomiichi Murayama, and the Sakigake party followed Mr Murayama's sudden resignation last week.