Leading off your reasoning with essentially "everyone else is doing it, so
we should too" is rather specious . . .

"tom k in L.A." wrote in message
oups.com...
Thank you very much for tuning into Radio Japan.

NHK faces demands to foster greater understanding of Japan by
expanding
the content and reach of the television component of its international
broadcasts. The international radio service has therefore been
subject to
a review, in accordance with the three-year NHK Corporate Plan
unveiled in
January this year, which attaches greater importance to international
television.

With the development of a diverse range of broadcasting and
telecommunications technologies, major international broadcasters
around
the world have scaled down their shortwave services, and shifted their
attention to the likes of wider-reaching TV services. A vast amount
of
money would also be required to replace ageing transmitter facilities.
The NHK receiving fees paid by the Japanese public must be put to more
efficient use at a time when NHK faces financial difficulties, an
issue of
which you are undoubtedly aware. We have ultimately had to review the
shortwave transmissions of Radio Japan, and make a number of tough
decisions.
Radio Japan plans to end its shortwave services to North America,
Hawaii,
and Europe (excluding the Russian-language service).
Radio Japan also plans to end its Malay, Italian, German, and
Swedish-language services.

These changes are due to take place in October 2007. Until then, we
hope,
of course, that you will continue to enjoy listening to Radio Japan.

Regrettably, we cannot fully express our gratitude for all of the
encouragement and support you have provided to Radio Japan over the
years.
We trust you will understand the painful decisions we have been forced
to
make, and continue to show an interest in NHK.

We look forward to your continued support of NHK World.

Regards,
NHK World