Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: On a different subject, there have been some press reports that the Government is seeking to postpone the implementation of free medical care for persons under the age of 18 years in Fukushima Prefecture. What are the facts of this matter and what is the future outlook?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: This matter was raised on January 8, at the time of Prime Minister Noda's visit to Fukushima, where one issue was raised was the fact that in Aizu and other places compensation had not yet been received and another issue related to medical care expenses. The Prime Minister recognized these as extremely important issues and announced that they would be considered by the Government. These issues are therefore under consideration within the Government. As I mentioned in my press conference the other day, there are various opinions on the subject of medical care expenses in particular, both for and against, and as serious deliberations are currently underway by the relevant bodies the situation at present is that a conclusion has yet to be made.

(Abridged)