第 29~32 題為一題組        Despite its reputation for hi-tech wizardry, Japan can be stubbornly analogue. When the pandemic hit, only 40% ofJapanese firms had used digitized contracts at all and just 30% had systems in place to enable remote working. Faxes remainubiquitous； in many prefectures, doctors have been faxing coronavirus test results to public-health officials. The pandemic hasalso exposed Japan Inc’s unusually heavy reliance on face-to-face communication. Meeting clients or business partners inperson is de rigueur. The Japanese style of collective decision-making depends on people huddling in a room together.Salarymen and women put in long days in the office to demonstrate their dedication to their company and colleagues—and thenlate nights of sake-fueled carousing to build camaraderie.        Some firms are responding. Covid-19 is a headwind for revenues, but a tailwind “in terms of culture”, says HagiwaraShinichi, boss of Mitsui Foods, a big wholesaler. He has instructed staff to hold regular Zoom meetings. Many firms areshifting to digital contracts. Virtual drinking parties, or Zoom-nomi, are all the rage； as Honda Masakazu, a columnist, recentlyput it on Toyo Keizai, a business-news site, “You don’t have to worry about catching the last train.” So far the changes havebeen halting and uneven. Large Japanese companies are shifting to flexible work regimes more rapidly； they were more likelyto have computer systems in place, as well as cash on hand to make up for lost revenues and pay for investment in hardwareand software. Small and medium-sized firms “don’t have that luxury”, admits Mr. Hagiwara.        The evolution may not endure. Once restrictions are relaxed, managers may demand to see their subordinates back at theirdesks. On April

the prime minister, Abe Shinzo, called for a rapid review of the practice. Even his minister of technologypolicy conceded that their traditional culture presents an obstacle to teleworking.
【題組】29. Which of the following is the best title for the passage?
(A)Japanese offices struggle to adapt to social distancing.
(B)Japanese offices manage to change their social values.
(C)Japanese companies endeavor to escape from recession.
(D)Japanese companies attempt to keep their human resources.