Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: A panel of the Radiation Council of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) has indicated its concept that "the limit for annual exposure dose for residents is 20 mSv and that this limit should be gradually reduced as wide-area decontamination efforts proceed." This concept states that the central and local governments should respond accordingly, taking into account the status of progress in decontamination operations. What are your thoughts on this matter?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: I hear that the Radiation Council of MEXT is deliberating ways to protect residents from radiation in the vicinity of the nuclear power station. At the current point a definite direction has yet to be set out. I am aware that the Radiation Council is engaged in considerations based on academic and expert opinions, and is also taking into account advice from the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and other bodies. Therefore my comment at the current point is that the Government will continue to watch the process of deliberations within the Council.

REPORTER: There has been considerable criticism of the concept put forward by the Radiation Council. For example, is the Government not considering an option where residents would be able to return to their lives not during the process of decontamination, but after it has been completed to a certain extent?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: After consultations with respective local communities and residents concerned, I believe that such decisions will be made as we move forward.

(Abridged)