Former Japanese prime minister Hashimoto dies

TOKYO, Japan (Reuters) -- Former Japanese prime minister Ryutaro Hashimoto, an outspoken politician who jousted with U.S. officials over the car trade and brought "big bang" financial reforms to Tokyo, died on Saturday at 68, Kyodo news agency said.

Hashimoto, who retired from politics last September citing poor health, had undergone surgery to remove a large part of his intestine after being rushed to hospital on June 4.

Hailed as a forceful leader who would tackle reform when he took over as premier in 1996, he ultimately faltered in the face of financial crisis, political scandal and economic stagnation.

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Hmm perhaps some ATS members who live in Japan can shed some light on this guy.
What stopped the reforms political infighting ?
Are these the reforms that the likes of the UK ,USA and NZ under went during the 1980s ?
If they are the same reforms Japan will be able to pick and choose for example New Zealand proves that lower wages dosnt equal econmic growth.