(On the handling of the declaration of a state of emergency and priority measures to prevent the spread of disease)

We have just held a meeting of the relevant ministers. The number of new infections in Tokyo has hit a record high, with new cases in other regions on the rise. We are responding with a strong sense of crisis.

As we have received requests from local governments, we decided to consult with the experts committee tomorrow over the declaration of a state of emergency and priority measures to prevent the spread of disease. We will make decisions on the areas subject to the declaration or priority measures, the duration, and other details tomorrow.

In any event, we will respond to the situation appropriately to prevent the availability of hospital beds from being under strain, by having each region respond robustly while proceeding with vaccinations.