The separation of powers is an approach to governing a state. Under it, a state's government is divided into branches, each with separate, independent powers and responsibilities so that the powers of one branch are not in conflict with those of the other branches.
This means each branch of government has its own job and power and not one branch is more powerful than the other.
Generally speaking, Japan was becoming an Imperial power right before ww 2. They were waging war on China and Manchuria; and some other island nations. Therefore weakening Japan's steel supply was aimed to slow down their momentum.
