Japan is quite a lot different from Western countries in its welfare state. That makes it interesting for comparison. This is a link to the latest report from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Pensions and here is the full web address:

http://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/wp/wp-hw3/index.html

Part 3 has guidance on how the social security, health and pension systems work. These are not exactly thrilling reads but I mention them for reference. And if anyone knows of a readable summary, do let me know.

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2. Gladstone was a member of a friendly society
3. A double layer of choice for better healthcare
4. You wouldn’t be a hypocrite would you, Mr Brown?
5. The welfare state does not make us happy