The hot weather has continued, but the world of politics is looking distinctly chilly.

No sooner had we started to celebrate Abe’s resolve than it crumbled.

The messy appointment of Fukuda indicates a return to the old system. He talks a good reforming game, but is unlikely to be able to deliver much. If Abe san lacked charisma, Fukuda’s score must be negative. His ability to work outside the LDP machine is nil.

This is a sad situation for Japan. Continuing with reform might have unleashed the country’s entrepreneurial power. Now we look set for two years of status quo.